A drink driver who crashed his van into a 12-year-old schoolgirl while over the legal alcohol limit has been sentenced to prison. The horrifying incident occurred as the young victim was walking home from school.
The court heard how the intoxicated motorist lost control of his vehicle, mounting the pavement and striking the child. Emergency services rushed to the scene, where the girl was treated for serious injuries before being transported to hospital.
Reckless Actions With Devastating Consequences
Police investigations revealed the driver was significantly over the drink-drive limit at the time of the collision. Breathalyser tests showed alcohol levels nearly twice the legal threshold.
"This was an entirely preventable tragedy," the presiding judge remarked during sentencing. "Your decision to get behind the wheel while intoxicated has caused immeasurable harm to an innocent child and her family."
Community Outrage and Legal Consequences
The case has sparked outrage in the local community, with residents calling for tougher penalties for drink driving offences. The victim's family described their ongoing trauma in a heartfelt victim impact statement.
The offender received an immediate custodial sentence and was banned from driving for five years. The judge emphasized this case should serve as a stark warning about the dangers of drink driving.
Local authorities have since announced plans for increased road safety measures near schools, including additional speed bumps and crossing patrols.
