Michael Casey, 24, has been sentenced to six years in prison following a tragic drink-driving crash in Aldershot that resulted in the deaths of two teenage girls.
Casey, from St Pauls Road, Tottenham, admitted causing death by dangerous driving at Winchester Crown Court.
The fatal collision occurred on November 8, when Casey was speeding in his black Ford Focus along Queens Avenue. He struck 16-year-old Stacey Burrows and 17-year-old Lucy Pygott as they crossed at a pedestrian crossing during a running club training session.
The court heard that the girls had the right of way, having waited for the red traffic light and the green pedestrian signal before stepping onto the crossing at around 7:10pm. Despite this, Casey, who was over the drink-drive limit and distracted, hit the two girls, instantly killing them both.
Forensic experts revealed there was at least six seconds between the amber light appearing and the girls starting to cross, providing ample time for Casey to stop or slow down, but he failed to react.
Casey was sentenced to six years in prison for each death, with the sentences to run concurrently. He was also given a 10-year driving ban.
Sgt Mark Furse, the senior investigating officer, described the case as “truly tragic” and condemned Casey’s recklessness.
“Both had such promising futures but those were cruelly ripped away because of Mr Casey’s stupidity behind the wheel,” Sgt Furse said. “Driving under the influence leads to poor judgement and the death of two young girls. It’s not worth the risk.”
Following the sentencing, Lucy’s family paid a heartfelt tribute, stating: “Lucy was truly exceptional in every way. She deserved many more happy years.”
The families of Stacey and Lucy are left devastated, forced to live with an unbearable loss that could have been avoided if Casey had made the right choice that night.
Originally published by UKNIP.
