Dangerous driver who killed young "vibrant" Sheffield woman who "lit up any room" to discover his fate

A dangerous driver responsible for killing a 29-year-old pedestrian in an early-morning Sheffield crash is set to discover his fate.

Ellie Smart, aged 29, was walking along Donetsk Way, near Crystal Peaks, Sheffield, when she was 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 in January 2026.

He is now set to be sentenced by the Recorder of Sheffield, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC, during a hearing scheduled to take place at the same court on Friday (April 17, 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.

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.