Tristan Renshaw spared jail after killing Fulham cyclist in tipper truck crash

A lorry driver who killed a cyclist in Fulham has avoided immediate imprisonment after being sentenced at the Old Bailey. Tristan Renshaw, 47, was given an 18-month prison term suspended for two years for causing the death of Zinovly Savyulak, 60, on North End Road on 15 December 2022. The judge also ordered 150 hours of unpaid work and a 12-month driving ban.

Renshaw was driving a 44-tonne tipper truck when he turned left and collided with Savyulak, who was cycling in the same direction. The Ukrainian national suffered catastrophic injuries and died at the scene. A jury convicted Renshaw of causing death by dangerous driving in July 2026.

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Judge criticises mirror checks and delays

Judge Philip Katz KC told Renshaw he had escaped jail "by the skin of your teeth". The judge noted that Renshaw had spent a month on remand, which should serve as a warning of how close he came to imprisonment. Katz criticised Renshaw’s claim that poor lighting and Savyulak’s dark clothing contributed to the collision.

Prosecutors argued that Savyulak would have been visible in the truck’s mirrors if Renshaw had checked properly. Katz said, "You did not see Mr Savyulak because you did not check properly a final time before you turned left." The judge also condemned the three-year delay in bringing the case to trial, calling it unjustified.

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I do not blame you for casting around for explanation for how this dreadful situation took place but it is unimpressive you did not face the truth.

Judge Philip Katz KC

Victim’s widow describes life-changing loss

In a victim impact statement, Savyulak’s widow said the death had "completely changed" her life. She described the psychological and financial harm caused by the loss of her husband. Katz paid tribute to her composure, saying the impact had been severe and had imperilled her means of survival.

The widow added, "The defendant and his family are also facing major problems and are under a lot of stress right now. I have no right to judge anyone, because that's life and we never know what lies ahead." Her statement was read in court on 10 August 2026.

Driver’s history of convictions

Renshaw, from Staines, had previous driving convictions dating back to 1997. These included dangerous driving, taking a vehicle without consent, and driving while disqualified. The court heard he did not realise he had hit anyone until he was told and heard Savyulak screaming.

The Crown Prosecution Service said Renshaw’s failure to check his mirrors properly was the primary cause of the collision. The case was heard at the Old Bailey after a trial that concluded in July 2026.

What happens next

Renshaw must complete 150 hours of unpaid work within the next two years. His driving disqualification lasts until 10 August 2027. If he breaches the terms of his suspended sentence, he could be sent to prison to serve the 18-month term.