‘Impatient’ woman in bank queue killed pensioner with just one shove

This is the moment a confused Alzheimer’s sufferer is fatally shoved to the floor in a bank in a row with an impatient customer.

Courtney Richman, 26, was handed a suspended jail sentence yesterday after being found guilty of the manslaughter of Myra Coutinho-Lopez.

The 82-year-old died from her injuries 10 days after being pushed over in the Lloyds Bank branch.

Luton Crown Court heard she had gone in to withdraw money in December 2021, but got in a
muddle when shown her statements.

As staff tried to help her, a queue of customers formed, including Richman, who started rowing with Myra over the length of time she was taking.

A member of the public offered to help the pensioner and she moved away from the counter – prompting Richman to clap her hands. Prosecutors said Myra then swung her handbag towards the younger woman, who was hit by it as she turned away.

In response, Richman shoved Myra with both hands, causing her to fall heavily on her hip and shoulder in Welwyn Garden City, Herts.

She was taken to hospital but later died. Richman, who was arrested the day after the incident, was sentenced to 16 months in jail – suspended for 21 months – after a jury found her guilty. She was also given a rehabilitation order and told to complete 180 hours of unpaid work.

Detective Superintendent Rob Hall said: “This has been a harrowing ordeal for Myra’s family and our thoughts remain with them at what continues to be a difficult time.” Daughter Michelle Lopez said of her mum: “She has left an unspeakable void to all who knew her, including her beloved children, extended family and lifelong friends worldwide.

“The yearning for my mother’s presence is a constant ache in my heart, particularly as I observe other daughters engaging in mundane activities with their mothers such as grocery shopping or sharing a coffee or meal together. These memorable moments now evoke a feeling of emptiness.

“Those who knew her miss her deeply and will continue to cherish her memory and honour her legacy of kindness, fortitude and generosity.

“She was a shining light on how to survive and thrive in life despite adversities and setbacks.

“After enduring years of waiting, I’m thankful to the jury for reaching a guilty verdict.”