On a quiet spring morning in Lichfield, Staffordshire, a tragic incident unfolded that would forever alter the lives of a loving family. Suzanne Cherry, a 62-year-old woman described as selfless, caring, and full of life, was struck by a Nissan van at Aston Wood Golf Club on Blake Street on April 11, 2025.
After battling for her life in the hospital, she passed away on April 18. The circumstances leading up to her tragic death are both heartbreaking and complicated, as three men have now been charged in connection with the crash, with further investigations into the police pursuit that preceded the collision.
A Fatal Collision at Aston Wood Golf Club
The events that led to Suzanne Cherry’s death began around 10:15 a.m. on April 11, 2025, when officers from West Midlands Police began pursuing a grey Nissan van that was allegedly linked to suspicious activity.
The officers, who were in two patrol cars, initially observed the vehicle in Kingstanding, Birmingham. Shortly after the pursuit began, the van fled from the officers, heading towards Lichfield, where the incident would ultimately unfold.
As the van approached the Aston Wood Golf Club on Blake Street, the driver lost control and veered off the road. The vehicle then made its way up an embankment, entering the golf course grounds. Tragically, it struck Suzanne Cherry, who was reportedly on the grounds of the golf course at the time. The impact of the crash left her severely injured, and she was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
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Suzanne’s family and friends clung to hope, praying for her recovery. However, despite the efforts of medical professionals, Suzanne succumbed to her injuries on April 18, 2025, a week after the crash. Her death has since left a void in the lives of all who knew her, particularly her immediate family.
Three Men Arrested in Connection with the Crash
Following the fatal crash, Staffordshire Police launched an investigation into the events leading up to Suzanne’s death. In a statement issued shortly after the incident, the police confirmed that three individuals had been charged in connection with the incident.
John McDonald, 51, from Bloxwich, was charged with manslaughter, assault by beating, and failing to stop when directed by an officer. The latter charge relates to the fact that the van was being pursued by police officers before the crash, but the vehicle ultimately failed to stop when instructed to do so.
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Additionally, Johnny McDonald, 22, of Dudley, and Brett Delaney, 34, of Darlaston, Walsall, were both charged with manslaughter in connection with the incident.
The charges reflect the serious nature of the crash and the subsequent loss of life, with each individual facing grave legal consequences. These charges are significant not only because of the tragic death of Suzanne Cherry but also because they raise questions about the events that led to the crash itself, including the police pursuit.
While the three men charged are due to appear at Stafford Crown Court for a plea hearing on May 23, 2025, three other men who were arrested in connection with the investigation have been released on bail with conditions. The ongoing investigation continues to uncover the full extent of the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Investigating the Police Pursuit: The Role of West Midlands Police
One of the most concerning aspects of this tragedy is the role that the police pursuit played in the events leading to Suzanne Cherry’s death. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is actively investigating the circumstances before the crash, focusing specifically on the actions of the West Midlands Police officers who began following the Nissan van.
According to the IOPC, the officers began pursuing the van around 10:15 a.m. on April 11 in Kingstanding, Birmingham, after receiving reports of suspicious activity.
However, when the van left the road and entered the golf course, the police reportedly ceased following the vehicle, according to the guidelines that govern police pursuits. Despite this, the van’s erratic behavior and failure to stop ultimately led to the collision that killed Suzanne Cherry.
The IOPC investigation aims to determine whether the actions of the police during the pursuit were appropriate and whether they contributed in any way to the crash. As the investigation continues, the public and Suzanne’s family are awaiting further details about how the police handled the pursuit and whether any errors were made during the course of the operation.
This investigation highlights the often complex and delicate nature of police pursuits, especially in urban areas where vehicles can quickly veer off into unpredictable locations. It also raises important questions about the safety of bystanders when police are involved in high-speed chases.
Remembering Suzanne Cherry: A Life Cut Short
In the wake of this tragedy, Suzanne Cherry’s family has expressed their deep sorrow and grief. Her husband, who chose to remain anonymous, shared a moving tribute to his wife, describing her as “unselfish” and “always ready to encourage with love.” He highlighted Suzanne’s remarkable character and zest for life, noting that she had an infectious energy that touched everyone around her.
Suzanne’s family shared that she leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration, having been a source of support to those in her life, both professionally and personally. Her dedication to encouraging others to achieve their best is a memory that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
The family described Suzanne as someone who always put others first, and her passing leaves an “unfillable void” in the lives of her mother, her three adult children, two stepchildren, and her wide circle of friends and colleagues.
Suzanne’s passion for life and her selflessness made her an unforgettable presence in the community, and her death has left a profound impact on those who had the privilege of knowing her.
The Ongoing Impact: A Tragic Loss Felt by All
As the legal process unfolds and the investigation continues, the emotional and psychological toll of Suzanne Cherry’s death is being felt by her family and friends. The tragic loss of a loved one in such sudden and violent circumstances has left her family devastated, struggling to come to terms with the reality of her absence.
The story of Suzanne’s death is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of accidents. While the investigation into the cause of the crash and the police pursuit continues, Suzanne’s family is focusing on honoring her memory and cherishing the moments they shared with her.
This incident also serves as a call for greater awareness of the risks associated with police pursuits, especially in areas where civilians might be at risk. As the investigation progresses, it is hoped that important lessons will be learned, and steps will be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The death of Suzanne Cherry is a heartbreaking tragedy that has left her family, friends, and the community in mourning. As three men face charges in connection with the crash, and the police pursuit remains under investigation, the focus will shift to ensuring justice for Suzanne and finding closure for her loved ones.
In the meantime, Suzanne’s legacy as a loving wife, mother, and friend will endure. Her spirit, as described by those who knew her, will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of being touched by her warmth and generosity.
The impact of this tragedy extends far beyond the immediate family. It serves as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the need for careful consideration in all situations, especially those involving high-speed pursuits. As the investigation continues, it is hoped that lessons will be learned and changes will be made to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.