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A nurse specializing in mental health expressed shock when a US citizen, who was apparently connected to the secret service, departed the UK following a car accident that left her paralyzed.
Elizabeth Donowho, age 56, was on her way home from work when her car was hit by another driver. She was then taken to the hospital and unable to work for six weeks.
On December 1st, Issac Calderon, 22, was scheduled to attend Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court for a charge of causing serious injury through reckless driving.
However, it was later revealed that the individual was able to fly commercially to Houston, Texas just days before their court date, despite being labeled a “flight risk” by the police.
Ms Donowho was informed by the West Mercia Police that the 22-year-old was engaged in activities related to the secret service and dealing with subjects that could potentially fall under the Official Secrets Act prior to the accident on the A4103 in Shucknall, Herefordshire on July 31st.
Ms Donowho, from Malvern in Worcestershire, recounted, “It was a typical evening commute from work.”
I was completely unaware that there would be an accident. The first thing I noticed was a large silver object coming towards me, but I couldn’t tell that it was a car.
Unfortunately, the car’s side was approaching me and I was unable to prevent it. I had to prepare for the crash and its inevitable consequences.
She was hospitalized for two and a half weeks, stating: “I sustained numerous fractures, including my sternum, right hand, and both ankles.”
I underwent a surgical procedure on my left ankle, as it was fractured in two locations and I was unable to walk for six weeks. I spent two and a half weeks in the hospital and had to depend on the generosity of others for assistance.
Ms Donowho said she has been unable to work since the crash, adding: “The fact that the person who crashed into me didn’t turn up for the hearing and has since left the country has been pretty devastating.
I had hoped that the situation would improve after the hearing, but instead, it has become even more problematic.
In August 2019, a US citizen named Anne Sacoolas used diplomatic immunity to leave the UK after being involved in a fatal road crash that resulted in the death of teenage motorcyclist Harry Dunn. The current situation is similar to hers.
In reaction to the news, Charlotte Charles, the mother of Mr Dunn, expressed her shock and dismay upon learning about Elizabeth’s experience and the fact that the perpetrator has escaped the country.
She remarked, “This brings back memories of the weeks after Harry passed away when we experienced something similar.”
I am currently communicating closely with Elizabeth and providing her with all the assistance I can, as is my team. I anticipate her situation being resolved much faster than ours was.
According to the Hereford Times, Caldron was listed as an American soldier during the court hearing in December.
The US embassy has referred to Mr Calderon as a “private citizen” and authorities have stated that he was in the UK on a work visa.
Police were unaware that Mr. Calderon had plans to leave the UK. He was questioned by officers on August 15, 15 days after the accident, due to his urgent need for medical attention.
When asked about any information she had received regarding him, Ms Donowho stated: “I was informed that due to the fact that the individual who collided with my car was American and had the potential to flee, they were expediting the process of bringing him to trial.”
Police informed me in the beginning that he was a flight risk, using the example of Anne Sacoolas as a precedent.
“They reported that they had communicated with our military police, who in turn spoke with American military police. The American military police assured that he would remain in the country to face justice.”
She stated, “I had strong suspicions that he would leave the country.” This has completely changed the situation and I am disappointed by the authorities who assured us that they had made arrangements to keep the other driver in the country for our justice system.
I doubt we will ever see him again, as he could be anywhere in the world now.
Confirming Mr Calderon’s departure, West Mercia Police said: “Mr Calderon is an American citizen who, we understand, was in the UK on a work visa.
”
After investigation, we have determined that he departed from the UK on November 25 and traveled to the United States. We are communicating with his lawyer to notify him of the warrant and the requirement for his return to the UK.
“We are also equipped with necessary documentation to facilitate extradition, in case it becomes necessary, to ensure that the matter can be presented in court.”
Ms. Donowho expressed her desire for the UK and US authorities to collaborate in ensuring the safe return of Mr. Calderon. When asked if she had a message for him, she stated that she believes he is feeling fearful.
I suggest that you inform the authorities nearest to you so that they can assist you in making the correct decision.
The spokesperson for the US embassy stated that they do not make statements regarding law enforcement issues concerning American citizens. The US and UK work closely together on law enforcement matters.
The Home Office has stated that they will not confirm or deny the existence of an extradition request until the suspect has been apprehended, in accordance with their long-standing policy and protocol.
Source: independent.co.uk