The spouse of a cherished British grandmother who tragically lost her life in a road accident in Turkey while on vacation has publicly addressed the incident for the first time. Lisa Di Palma, aged 61, was fatally hit by a speeding driver as she attempted to cross a busy road on her way to dinner during a three-week trip in Fethiye, as revealed in a recent inquest. Her husband, Keith, recounted the heartbreaking event at the Walthamstow Coroner’s Court, describing how a fast-moving vehicle struck his wife directly after narrowly missing him.
Lisa, a grandmother of four from Hornchurch, East London, was rushed to the hospital but sadly passed away a week later. The inquest disclosed that the driver, allegedly four times over the legal drink drive limit in Turkey, is scheduled to face a criminal trial later this year in the country.
Keith vividly recounted the incident in a statement read by Coroner Nadia Persaud, recalling how he narrowly escaped being hit by the car while Lisa bore the brunt of the impact. Despite efforts to intervene, the driver initially resisted leaving the vehicle, prompting a tense confrontation.
With the help of two local bystanders, Keith managed to lift the car and remove the driver from the scene. Lisa, although conscious, sustained severe injuries, including fractures and internal bleeding, requiring urgent medical attention at a hospital miles away.
Medical reports indicated the extent of Lisa’s injuries, leading to a series of treatments and surgeries. Tragically, despite efforts to save her, Lisa’s condition deteriorated, leading to her untimely demise.
Following the distressing ordeal, Keith expressed his dismay over the handling of the situation by the Turkish media and hospital staff. He criticized the lack of compassion shown during their final moments with Lisa, highlighting the emotional toll it took on the family.
The court proceedings unveiled details from a road traffic collision report, confirming the driver’s significantly high blood alcohol level and the absence of any signs of braking or attempts to avoid the collision.
Lisa’s official cause of death was attributed to injuries sustained in the road accident. The driver is expected to face legal consequences in Turkey for his actions. Keith praised Lisa’s dedication to her family and community, leading to the establishment of a foundation in her honor to support disadvantaged children in sports.
Keith’s heartfelt tribute to Lisa’s altruism and commitment to helping others reflected the profound impact she had on those around her. The community’s generous support through fundraising initiatives underscored the lasting legacy of a woman who selflessly gave to others.
