Brackley teenager in court in connection with death of Marcus Coleman

Reece Parsons is charged with causing the death of 79-year-old Marcus Coleman by careless driving in an accident which happened in Brackley town centre on May 11 this year.

Northampton Magistrates’ Court heard on Thursday last week that Parsons crashed into Mr Coleman and his wife Gillian on his Honda CBR600 while they were crossing the road near the town’s war memorial.

Parsons, of Hawthorn Drive, Brackley is also charged with malicious wounding in relation to Mrs Coleman, who the court heard suffered a broken ankle, broken wrist, severe bruising and grazing.

Parsons didn’t enter a plea to either charge.

Anike Adelekan, prosecuting, said Mr and Mrs Coleman had gone into Brackley town centre to do some shopping and were crossing the road in Market Place. They saw the approaching motorcycle but were of the view they could cross the road in time to avoid it.

The motorcycle collided with the couple, dragging Mr Coleman along the handlebars. Mr Coleman was a prominent member of the community, having served as the deputy headteacher at Southfield School, and as headteacher of Brackley Junior School between 1985 and 1995.

He was also an active member of the Rotary Club of Brackley.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction and the case was adjourned to reappear back before the court on November 8 when it is expected to be committed to Northampton Crown Court.