John Harkins, a 35-year-old man, tearfully apologised to the family of 10-year-old Charlie Lowe as he was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison for causing the boy’s death by dangerous driving. Charlie was struck and killed by Harkins’ car in April last year while crossing a road in front of his devastated mother and younger brother.

The tragic incident took place on Abingdon Road in Walton, Liverpool, as Harkins drove his 23-plate Ford Kuga at more than twice the speed limit, reaching 51 mph in a 20 mph zone. Charlie was hit while crossing the road after exiting his mother’s car, parked outside their local supermarket. The boy was rushed to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, where he died the following morning due to “unsurvivable” injuries.

During the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, Harkins expressed his remorse to the court and Charlie’s family, telling them, “I’m sorry, I’m really sorry,” while sobbing. He admitted causing death by dangerous driving and has been banned from driving for eight years and four months.

The court heard that Harkins had no history of prior driving offences and had been on his way home from work when the collision occurred. Despite his claims of being unaware of his speed, investigators concluded that Harkins had been speeding throughout his journey and that, had he been driving at the legal limit, the collision could have been significantly less severe.

Sentencing Harkins, Judge Garrett Byrne acknowledged the remorse shown but emphasized the lasting impact of the tragedy on Charlie’s family. This is a profoundly sad case where a young boy, only 10 years old, lost his life. The sentence I pass today can never reflect the loss they have suffered.

Charlie’s family, who were present in court, described him as an “intelligent, bright, and loving child” whose death has left a void that can never be filled.