James Swainston: Mother pens heartbreaking tribute for son killed in motorcycle crash as woman is charged

A heartbroken mother has penned an emotional tribute to her son, who was fatally struck by a car while riding his motorbike on Saturday in Sydney’s West.

James Swainston, 31, was riding along Richmond Road in Marsden Park around 3.30pm when his motorbike collided with a Ford utility vehicle.

Despite the efforts of passing motorists who rushed to help, Mr Swainston, who was a dedicated volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, died at the scene.

In a heartbreaking tribute shared on social media, Mr Swainston’s mother, Dawn, remembered her son as a “caring and loving” person who was always there for others.

“It is with devastation and broken hearts that we are sharing that James passed away on Saturday 18th October,” the post began.

“Those who knew James will know that James cared and wanted to help people, be it supporting his family, being a protective big brother, son or boyfriend, helping a mate, or as a volunteer in the RFS.”

Ms Swainston revealed that James had been on his way home after helping someone close to him when the crash occurred.

“When travelling home after helping someone James loved, through absolutely no fault of his own, he was involved in a motorbike accident,” she continued.

“We loved James so much, and we are so very proud of the caring and loving son, brother, boyfriend, cousin, nephew, grandchild and friend that he was.”

Ms Swainston added that the details for her son’s funeral would be shared in the coming days, and made a touching request in lieu of flowers.

“Instead, in the memory of James please reach out to the people you love and do something to show them how much you love them.”

Police allege the driver of the Ford fled the scene before emergency services arrived.

In a statement, NSW Police confirmed that a 37-year-old woman was arrested at a business in Penrith around 12.30pm on Tuesday following an investigation.

She was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with multiple offences, including dangerous driving occasioning death, driving dangerously, failing to stop and assist after a vehicle impact caused death, and driving a motor vehicle during disqualification period.

The woman, from Londonderry, was refused bail and is due to appear before Penrith Local Court on Wednesday.