THE families of three people who were killed in a crash on the A1(M) in County Durham last July after Galashiels’ lorry driver Ion Onut drove into stationary traffic whilst browsing on mobile phone sites, have spoken of their grief.

Dashcam footage showed the cab burst into flames and career 100m along the motorway after the initial crash caused an explosion.

David Daglish, 57, and Elaine Sullivan, 59, of Seaham, and Paul Mullen, 51, of Washington died in the incident and last week Onut was sentenced to eight-years and 10-months in prison at Durham Crown Court after admitting three counts of causing death by dangerous driving.

In a victim personal statement read out in court, Elaine’s son and David’s stepson, Junior Sullivan, said: “Nothing could prepare me for being woken up to be told that my mam and dad had been killed in a car crash. It’s impossible for me to describe what went through my head at that moment, only that everything that was perfect about my life suddenly no longer existed. In that very moment my world had shattered and I became an empty shell. I couldn’t think, I couldn’t move.

“People tell you it’s okay to be upset and cry or to be angry, and they always say ‘if there’s anything I can do’ but what could anyone possibly do? There’s no how-to guide for dealing with the loss of both of your parents. For losing the only family you have. For losing the people who quite literally sacrificed everything to give you the best possible chances.

“With all of that said, I cling to the hope that something good can come from the pain and suffering we all continue to feel. The idea that this can be seen by many as a reminder as to the consequences of these actions and the hope it can prevent just one person or one family from experiencing what have experienced, is what keeps me going in the darkest moments.”

Border Telegraph: Paul Mullen

Orlaigh Mullen, Paul’s daughter, said: “It’s difficult to put into words how much we miss our dad – losing a parent is something you think will never happen, you always think that they are invincible.

“My dad was always there for us growing up. We looked up to him, he was the hardest working man I have ever met and ever will meet. He worked so hard for all of us.

“I miss him coming home every Friday night and shouting ‘hello’ when he came through the door and giving us all a big hug.”