"Dangerous" driver facing prison sentence after admitting killing woman in early-morning Sheffield crash
A Sheffield man is facing a prison sentence after he pleaded guilty to killing a “vibrant, young” pedestrian by dangerous driving.
Ellie Smart, aged 29, was walking along Donetsk Way, near the Crystal Peaks area of Sheffield, when she was fatally hit by a black Vauxhall Astra vehicle at around 7.37am on Thursday, January 25, 2024.
Dean Tolan, 35, was subsequently charged with causing Ms Smart’s death by dangerous driving.
Tolan, of Bowman Drive, Charnock, Sheffield, pleaded guilty to the offence in a Sheffield Crown Court hearing held on Thursday (January 15, 2026).
Since July 2023, the offence of causing death by dangerous driving has carried a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, with a typical sentencing range of between two and 18 years’ custody.
Following Thursday’s plea hearing, Tolan was released on unconditional bail, ahead of his scheduled sentencing hearing at the same court in April 2026.
Ms Smart worked as a communications officer at South Yorkshire Police (SYP), and was described by the force as being a "a very popular colleague and friend."
After her death, SYP’s Chief Constable Lauren Poultney added: “Ellie was a vibrant young woman who lit up any room she was in.
“She was passionate about her role, and a loyal colleague and friend.
"Her loss is felt across the whole force, and we are all holding her family in our thoughts.”
She was taken to hospital following the crash, but sadly passed away later in the day.