Chronic Alcoholic Jailed Over 5 Years for Fatally Injuring 9-Year-Old Boy in Drunk Driving Crash

Kristie Merrett, a 52-year-old chronic alcoholic, was sentenced to over 5 years in jail for fatally injuring a 9-year-old boy while driving more than 4 times the legal alcohol limit and speeding in Killarney Vale, Australia. Merrett had a blood alcohol level above 0.20 and was driving nearly 30km/h over the speed limit when she crashed into a car driven by a woman with her son in the back.

The boy, who was in a booster seat, suffered a catastrophic brain injury and died 3 days later. Merrett had consumed a bottle of vodka the night before the accident after an argument with her partner. She claimed she felt okay to drive, but after the crash, she asked, "Where am I? What's happened? I need a drink, I need a drink."

Gosford District Court Judge Justin Smith said Merrett's actions highlighted the dangers of drink driving and speeding. He sentenced her to 5 years and 5 months in prison with a minimum of 3 years and 6 months, to hold her accountable and deter others from similar behavior. The judge acknowledged Merrett's traumatic childhood, which had a lifelong impact and contributed to her alcohol addiction and mental health issues, including major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Why this matters: This tragic case underscores the devastating consequences of drunk driving and the importance of holding offenders accountable. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to prevent impaired driving and keep communities safe.

The family of the deceased boy expressed disappointment at the sentence handed down to Merrett. It was not her first drink-driving offense, as she had only recently completed an interlock period, which requires a device that prevents a car from starting if the driver has been drinking. Merrett pleaded guilty to aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death, causing grievous bodily harm, and possessing cannabis.

Key Takeaways

• Drunk driver Kristie Merrett sentenced to 5+ years for fatal crash
• Merrett had blood alcohol level 4x legal limit, was speeding
• 9-year-old boy suffered catastrophic brain injury, died 3 days later
• Judge cited Merrett's traumatic childhood, mental health issues as factors
• Case highlights need for accountability, prevention of impaired driving