The husband of a mother killed when a van driver fleeing police mowed her down on a golf course has paid a heartbreaking tribute to his 'unselfish' and 'beautiful' wife.
A 'Zest for Life' Snatched Away
Suzanne Cherry, a 62-year-old described as having an 'infectious zest for life', was fatally struck on April 11 last year at Aston Wood Golf Club in Sutton Coldfield. She was playing golf with her husband, Clint Harrison, when the tragedy occurred.
Rogue roofer John McDonald, 51, was at the wheel of a Nissan van during a dramatic 12-minute police pursuit. He drove at speeds of up to 70mph in 30mph zones, mounted pavements, damaged other vehicles, and rammed a police car at least eight times before turning onto the course in Little Aston.
Ms Cherry had been searching for her ball near a stream when the van smashed into her. Collision investigators stated McDonald was doing 41mph just five seconds before the airbags deployed.
Callous Flight and Family's Anguish
In a devastating act, McDonald, along with passengers Brett Delaney, 35, and his own son, Johnny McDonald, 23, fled the scene. Det Insp Lisa Holland confirmed: "He knew he had struck Suzanne, and rather than stop to help her, he chose to run away."
Suzanne Cherry suffered multiple catastrophic injuries and died in hospital on April 15, the day before her 63rd birthday.
Paying tribute, her husband Clint Harrison said: "While enjoying what should have been the safest of one of Suzanne’s many activities, I watched in helpless horror as the life of my beautiful wife and our future together was snatched away in an instant."
He added: "Suzanne had an amazing and infectious zest for life which touched everyone who was fortunate enough to know her. She was unselfish, always ready to encourage with love and support."
Justice Served for Fatal Pursuit
At Worcester Crown Court, John McDonald of Bloxwich, Walsall, was jailed for 13 years and six months after pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. He received a concurrent four-year sentence for conspiracy to commit fraud.
The fraud offences, which took place between February 17 and April 12, 2025, involved the three men conning residents by claiming roofing work was needed when it was not, and charging them for it.
His son, Johnny McDonald of Netherton, Dudley, was jailed for 32 months for the fraud conspiracy. Brett Delaney of Darlaston, Walsall, received a 28-month sentence for the same offence.
Mr Harrison concluded his tribute by stating his wife leaves "an unfillable void" for her mother, three adult children, two stepchildren, granddaughter, and countless friends.
