A reckless driver has been sentenced to 12 years in prison following a hit-and-run crash in North London that resulted in the death of a 12-year-old girl.
The fatal collision took place on 20 August 2022 on Colney Hatch Lane. Edward Tully, 30, from St John’s Wood, was driving his Bentley Continental at 56mph, exceeding the 30mph speed limit by 26mph, when he collided with a Vauxhall Astra carrying the young girl and her family.
The girl sustained catastrophic injuries and tragically died in hospital several days later. Her father suffered life-changing injuries, while her mother and brother escaped with minor wounds.
Following the crash, Tully fled the scene, leaving the family devastated and complicating early investigations. He later turned himself in at Colindale Police Station the following day.
At Southwark Crown Court on 29 November, Tully was sentenced after pleading guilty at Harrow Crown Court on 25 October 2024 to charges of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving.
The court heard that Tully had spent £1,500 on alcohol just hours before the collision.
Metropolitan Police detectives used CCTV footage to track Tully’s movements and build a strong case against him. Detective Sergeant Nush Puvitharan said, “Tully’s selfish actions have sadly resulted in the loss of a young life. My thoughts are with the family, who are dealing with devastating loss. I hope this sentence deters others from drink driving. Our team worked tirelessly to present strong evidence. Drink driving destroys lives.”
The girl’s family expressed their grief, stating, “There is some closure with the sentence, but the pain will stay with us forever. No sentence can bring her back. We urge anyone thinking of drink driving to think twice. They don’t understand the devastation it causes. We waited over two years for justice due to the defendant’s cowardice.”
This tragic case highlights the deadly consequences of drink driving. The Metropolitan Police have pledged to continue cracking down on dangerous motorists to ensure justice for victims and their families.
Originally published by UKNIP.
