BREAKING: A teenager has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison for a fatal crash that killed William Taylor, 27, while driving high on MDMA. The teen, who was 17 years old at the time of the incident on July 2, 2024, broke down in tears as the verdict was announced in the Victorian County Court this afternoon.
The crash occurred in Burwood, Melbourne, when the teen, driving a stolen Jeep, collided with Taylor’s Toyota Corolla while traveling at a staggering 129 km/h in a 60 km/h zone. Witnesses reported that the boy was weaving through traffic, ignoring pleas from his five teenage passengers to slow down. Taylor was en route to soccer training when the collision happened at the intersection of Highbury and Warrigal roads, resulting in his tragic death at the scene.
According to authorities, after the crash, the teen fled the scene with his passengers but later attempted to track police activity using his phone. He searched for information on the potential punishment for involuntary manslaughter, indicating awareness of the severity of his actions. He was arrested the following day but initially lied about his phone’s whereabouts during police questioning.
Judge Justin Lewis emphasized the teen’s high moral culpability, noting he was unlicensed and under the influence at the time of the crash. “You never should have been driving at all,” the judge stated, highlighting the need for accountability and community deterrence against similar offenses.
While the court acknowledged the boy’s guilty plea as a sign of responsibility that spared Taylor’s family from a trial, the emotional toll was evident. Five heartfelt statements from Taylor’s family and friends painted a picture of profound grief. The judge observed, “The death of the loss expressed is profound,” underscoring the far-reaching impact of this tragedy.
The teen’s sentence was set at seven years and seven months, with the possibility of parole after four-and-a-half years. Judge Lewis recommended that the boy serve part of his sentence in a youth justice center, given his age. In a poignant moment, the teen’s mother wept in court, while Taylor’s family embraced as they left the courtroom, choosing not to speak to the media.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless driving and substance abuse, resonating deeply within the community. Authorities are urging all drivers to consider the lives at stake and the irreversible damage caused by such irresponsible behavior.
Stay tuned for further updates on the boy’s progress and any potential appeals in this developing story.
