Inquest into death of Maria Janik who died after car crash

The "beloved grandmother" was struck by a black Vauxhall Astra being driven by Teresa Spiers in the crash that happened at 10.15pm on October 30 last year.

The 51-year-old suffered severe head and chest injuries before dying two days later at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

During the inquest, held at Worcestershire Coroners Court on Tuesday, (December 13), Miss Spiers gave evidence. 

TRIBUTES: Maria Janik sadly died after being hit by a car (Image: West Mercia Police)

Miss Spiers, a registered nurse, said she had been going to work that night heading to Worcester Police Station. 

The inquest heard she turned off The Tything into Castle Street. 

Holding back tears Miss Spiers said: "As I turned into Castle Street the only thing I can remember is the windscreen smashing.

"I froze, my hands were on the steering wheel and I couldn't let go." 

Miss Spiers said sorry to Miss Janik's family adding: "I didn't see her. 

"I just wanted to say I'm so sorry that it happened."

A statement was read from PC Holly Newton, a police officer who was off duty and happened to be in the area that night. 

JUNCTION: The Foregate Street, Castle Street, The Tything junction where the crash happened (Image: Google)

"I remember in hindsight being concerned where she (Miss Janik) was stood," PC Newton said. 

"The car didn't have a chance to stop before hitting her."

During the evidence of PC Claire Burn a police crash investigator, CCTV footage was shown to the court of Miss Janik being hit by the car. 

READ MORE: Family pay tribute to "beloved mum" who died in The Tything

The inquest heard Miss Janik had not taken a direct crossing route from Castle Street, being hit while she was walking in a yellow box junction - with it unclear where she was crossing to. 

PC Burn said at the moment of impact the car had been travelling at 14mph and explained Miss Spiers' view could have been impeded by vehicles turning into The Tything, and the vehicle's roof pillar. 

Giving his conclusion Miss Janik died as the result of a road traffic collision, Coroner David Reid said Miss Spiers would not have had the reaction time to be able to take the evasive action to not hit Miss Spiers. 

INQUEST: Maria Janik's inquest was held at Worcestershire Coroner's Court (Image: Newsquest)

He passed his condolences to the family after announcing his verdict.

Miss Janik, from Southfield Street, Worcester, was born in Poland and moved from her home country to the city three years ago.

After her death was announced her family released a statement saying they had suffered "deep sadness and mourning".

The statement, translated from Polish, reads: "It is with deep regret that on November 1, 2021, the most beloved mother, grandma, daughter, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, died tragically 51 years old.

"For those who would like to go to the scene of a tragic accident in Worcester - The Tything - where flowers can be laid at the place of her last steps."

Bouquets of flowers were also left at the scene for Miss Janik who worked as a cleaner for several employers including ASK Italian in Cathedral Square.