Reckless driver jailed after killing six-year-old boy in Luton crash

35-year-old Michael Raffermati, of Wren Close, Caddington, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court yesterday after pleading guilty to one count of death by dangerous driving.

At around 2.20pm on October 20, 2018, emergency services were called to reports of a collision in Whitehorse Vale.

The six-year-old had been crossing the road on his bike with his father at a crossing point, when Raffermati hit him with his blue Vauxhall Astra.

The boy was taken to hospital, where he died of his injuries a short time later.

Yesterday (Monday), Raffermati was jailed for five-and-a-half-years and banned from driving for five years extended by 33 months. He will have to take an extended re-test in the future.

Sgt James Thorne, from the Beds, Cambs and Herts road policing unit, said: “I would like to commend the family for the manner in which they have conducted themselves throughout this enquiry.

“Raffermatti’s callous indifference to all other road users sadly resulted in the tragic loss of young life and the sentence passed today in no way illustrates the value of a life, nor is it intended to do so.

“Speeding is one of four reasons why collisions turn fatal and this should serve as a reminder to those who believe that speeding is an innocent, everyday necessity.

“Anyone who doesn’t take the safety of driving seriously, should look at the serious and devastating consequences that it can have on yours and other people’s lives.

“Hopefully this sentence will bring some closure to his family and a sense of justice for a terrible crime that can never be undone.”