Hit-and-Run Horror: Man Jailed for Killing 12-Year-Old Girl
A reckless driver has been slammed with a 12-year prison sentence after a hit-and-run crash in North London that killed a 12-year-old girl.
Deadly Crash on Colney Hatch Lane
Edward Tully, 30, from St John’s Wood, was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court on 29 November. The tragic smash happened on 20 August 2022 when Tully, speeding at 56mph in his Bentley Continental—26mph over the limit—collided with a Vauxhall Astra carrying the young girl and her family.
The girl suffered catastrophic injuries and sadly died in hospital days later. Her father was left with life-changing injuries, while her mother and brother escaped with minor wounds.
Tully’s Reckless Retreat and Guilty Plea
The court heard Tully splurged £1,500 on alcohol just hours before the tragedy. After the collision, he fled the scene, leaving the family devastated and hampering early investigations.
He turned himself in at Colindale Police Station the next day. Charged with causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving, Tully pleaded guilty at Harrow Crown Court on 25 October 2024.
Investigation and Police Statement
Metropolitan Police detectives used CCTV to track Tully’s movements and build a solid case against him.
“Tully’s selfish actions have sadly resulted in the loss of a young life,” said Detective Sergeant Nush Puvitharan. “My thoughts are with the family, who are dealing with devastating loss. I hope this sentence deters others from drink driving. Our team worked tirelessly to present strong evidence. Drink driving destroys lives.”
Family’s Heartbreaking Words
“There is some closure with the sentence, but the pain will stay with us forever,” the girl’s family said. “No sentence can bring her back. We urge anyone thinking of drink driving to think twice. They don’t understand the devastation it causes. We waited over two years for justice due to the defendant’s cowardice.”
Warning to All Drivers
This tragic case sends a stark warning about the deadly consequences of drink driving. The Metropolitan Police vow to keep cracking down on dangerous motorists and deliver justice for victims and their loved ones.
