Innocent mum ‘with heart of gold’ killed by driver as he fled cops in horror hit-and-run smash

NewsUK News A MUM “with heart of gold” was killed in a horror hit-and-run smash during a police chase with young driver. Lydia La Polla, 47, was driving in a Toyota with her 16-year-old son and husband when she was hit by a silver Mercedes being pursued by the police. Her family are ‘truly devastated and heartbroken’ following her death Credit: WNS Michael Connors, 28, has now been charged after killing the ‘selfless’ mum. Credit: WNS The collision happened shortly after 9:30pm on March 24, 2025 between Belgrave Road and Percy Road in Hightown, Wrexham, North Wales. The “selfless” mum from Wrexham died in hospital two days later while a police hunt was launched to find the killer and his passenger. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Her husband and 16-year-old, were also seriously injured. Pathologist of Royal Stoke University Hospital declared at her inquest that the cause of death was a severe blunt force head injury as a result of the crash. Michael Connors, 28, from Dublin, was eventually arrested on March 11, 2026, and extradited back to the UK three months later. Connors appeared at Mold Crown Court via video link on July 17, where he admitted three charges in relation to the incident. He pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and two charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The case was adjourned for a pre-sentence report to determine Connors’ level of risk to the public. Most read in The Sun District Judge MC Jones told Connors in court: “I’m sure you will understand that in view of the nature of the charges that you have admitted today the starting point is a significant custodial sentence.” At the time of her death, her family told Wales News: “Lydia had a true heart of gold and would always be there for others with her selfless acts of kindness. “She was devoted to her family and friends. “The night of Monday 24 March has scarred us for the rest of our lives. Life will never be the same without her.” Chief Superintendent Jaqueline Downes said: “Our deepest sympathies remain with the family of Lydia La Polla following their tragic loss. “We will continue to support them through each stage of the investigation and upcoming court proceedings. “As this remains an active investigation, it is important that people do not speculate about the incident online.”