Suffolk: Driver admits hit-and-run that killed horse

Edgaras Tilmantas, 34, had been driving down Church Lane in Earl Soham with "excessive speed" in a BMW on the morning of October 22 last year.

The rider was left "devastated and heartbroken" after the horse had to be put down following the collision.

Suffolk Magistrates' Court in Ipswich

Tilmantas, of Bracken Avenue in Kesgrave, appeared at Suffolk Magistrates Court on Thursday, February 9.

He pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention and failing to stop after an accident.

After being hit by the car, the 20-year-old horse called Patch fell into a ditch as the car "accelerated away".

When a vet later arrived, it was concluded the horse couldn't be saved.

Tilmantas admitted to police later that he had failed to stop because he "panicked", but accepted fault for the collision.

Patch, a 20-year-old horse, was killed after a crash with Edgaras Tilmantas' BMW. (Image: Harvey family)

The rider was left "heartbroken" as the horse was a "beloved member of our family", according to a statement read out in court.

In his defence, the court heard how Tilmantas "feels terrible" about the accident, which has stopped him driving and that he is "living his own punishment".

The 34-year-old father-of-two was also described as the "breadwinner" for his family.

Magistrates said the failure to stop placed Tilmantas in a high category of culpability and harm and said the case needs "careful consideration" because of its seriousness.

A pre-sentence report has been requested and Timantas has been handed an interim driving ban.

He was released on unconditional bail and is set to return to court on March 21 for sentencing.