Drink-Driver Mows Down Two Teen Runners at Peak of Their Lives
Tragic Crash Claims Two Young Lives
Michael Casey, 24, has been locked up for six years after a horrific drink-driving crash in Aldershot that killed two teenage girls. Casey, from St Pauls Road, Tottenham, admitted causing death by dangerous driving at Winchester Crown Court.
The fatal collision happened 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 Girls Had Right of Way
The court heard the pair waited for the red traffic light and the green man before stepping onto the crossing around 7:10pm. Despite this, Casey, over the drink-drive limit and distracted, ploughed into them, instantly killing both.
Forensic experts revealed there were at least six seconds between the amber light appearing and the girls starting to cross – plenty of time for Casey to stop or slow down but he failed to react.
Justice Served: Six Years Behind Bars
Casey was sentenced to six years for each death, to run concurrently. He was also slapped with a 10-year driving ban. Sgt Mark Furse, the senior investigating officer, called the case “truly tragic” and slammed Casey’s recklessness.
“Both had such promising futures but those were cruelly ripped away because of Mr Casey’s stupidity behind the wheel.”
“Driving under the influence leads to poor judgement and the death of two young girls. It’s not worth the risk.”
Families Mourn Lost Futures
Lucy’s family paid a heartfelt tribute after the sentencing, saying: “Lucy was truly exceptional in every way. She deserved many more happy years.”
Stacey and Lucy’s families are left devastated, forced to live with unbearable loss that could have been avoided if Casey had made the right choice that night.
