BREAKING: A 29-year-old man has been sentenced to 8.5 years in jail after a horrific crash in Brisbane that claimed the life of 73-year-old Yrsa Christoffersen and left her daughter with severe injuries. The tragic incident unfolded on September 2023 when Andrew Julian Stewart-Smith drove at a staggering 114 km/h in a 60 km/h zone, colliding with Christoffersen’s vehicle at approximately 6:40 AM.
In a heart-wrenching series of victim impact statements delivered in court, family members described the devastating aftermath of the crash. Maria Christoffersen, who was driving with her mother at the time, recounted waking up in a hospital bed in excruciating pain, desperate for news of her mother. “I remember asking where my mum was and they wouldn’t tell me,” she shared. “I could see it on their faces.” Maria suffered multiple fractures including her jaw, ribs, and spine, and endured life-threatening injuries that left her unable to eat solid food for months.
Stewart-Smith, who was driving a stolen Holden Commodore, fled the scene after the collision, claiming to bystanders, “You don’t understand, it’s not my car.” He was later apprehended by police after attempting to hide in a storm drain, concealing himself with mud.
The court heard that Stewart-Smith had a history of reckless driving, with an alarming 35 prior speeding offences since 2013. His actions on that fateful morning were described as “reprehensible” by Justice Tom Sullivan, who also addressed Stewart-Smith’s additional legal troubles, including charges related to drug possession and child exploitation material.
Lorna Christoffersen, another daughter of Yrsa Christoffersen, expressed her family’s anguish over the loss, stating, “Instead my mum got to spend the week in the morgue and get an autopsy.” The emotional toll on the family is profound, with a grandchild set to spend time with Yrsa now left mourning her absence.
Stewart-Smith pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death and grievous bodily harm. During searches following the crash, police discovered methamphetamine and over 335 images of child exploitation material on his phone.
The courtroom was filled with family members, all grappling with the emotional devastation of losing a beloved grandmother while another family member battles serious injuries. This case serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of reckless driving and the profound impact on innocent lives.
As the community mourns, attention now shifts to discussions on road safety and measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The family of Yrsa Christoffersen continues to seek justice and healing in the wake of this heartbreaking event.
