Updated: September 3, 2026
A 45-year-old Nigerian-British taxi driver has been sentenced to six years in prison after falling asleep at the wheel and causing the death of a 59-year-old man in Surrey.
Kolawole Erunkulu was driving an Audi on the A23 in Merstham in the early hours of 17 August 2025 when he entered a microsleep. His vehicle veered into a roadside lay-by and struck Philip Dray, who had stopped for a break and was opening the door of his parked Volkswagen. Mr Dray died at the scene.
An investigation revealed that Erunkulu had driven approximately 53 hours over the three days leading up to the collision. In the 12 hours immediately before the crash, he had been working as a taxi driver with only short breaks.
Erunkulu pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. On sentencing at Guildford Crown Court, he received a six-year prison term. He was also disqualified from driving for eight years and will be required to take an extended driving test should he apply for a new licence in the future.
The case underscores the serious risks of driver fatigue. Prolonged periods behind the wheel without adequate rest can lead to microsleeps — brief, involuntary episodes of sleep that last only seconds but can have catastrophic consequences. Road safety experts and authorities continue to emphasise the importance of proper rest for professional drivers to protect both themselves and other road users.
Funeral arrangements for Philip Dray and further details regarding the case remain with the family and the court.