A reckless driver who seriously injured a 13-year-old girl in a hit-and-run collision in Erdington has been sentenced to three years in prison.
Mervyn Boreland, 49, of Icknield Street, Birmingham, struck the young girl while speeding at up to 67mph on Holly Lane—more than double the 30mph speed limit—at around 5:20pm on Saturday, 27 May 2023.
After hitting the pedestrian, Boreland fled the scene without stopping to offer help.
Victim’s Life Changed Forever
The girl was rushed to hospital with life-threatening and life-changing injuries.
Although she survived, her family said her life “will never be the same,” detailing the long and painful journey she faced in learning to talk, walk, eat, and swallow again.
Her family released a heart-wrenching statement:
Our perfect family life changed forever that day. Watching our child struggle every day just to do the bare minimum is heartbreaking. She is our inspiration.”
Investigation and Arrest
West Midlands Police immediately launched an investigation, appealing for witnesses and analysing CCTV footage.
The search led officers to a black Volkswagen Golf, and Boreland was identified as the driver. He later handed himself in and was arrested.
After pleading guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, Boreland was sentenced last Thursday (1 May) at Birmingham Crown Court.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said:
This case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving. We are grateful for the public’s help in bringing this offender to justice.”
