Have any questions? Call us: Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.
Incident Overview
On June 2021, Adelaide lawyer Lauren Jean Willgoose, 32, caused a fatal crash on Goodwood Road in Adelaide’s inner south, which claimed the life of 70-year-old neuropsychologist Anthony Walsh. Willgoose was found guilty of dangerous driving causing death and leaving the scene of a crash after drinking 1.15L of wine before driving.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The incident occurred late at night when Walsh was crossing Goodwood Road after dinner with his wife and friends. Wearing brightly colored clothing, including a red jacket and yellow hat, Walsh began crossing the road toward his wife’s parked car. Willgoose’s car struck Walsh without braking or swerving and continued driving without stopping.
The court heard expert evidence suggesting that Willgoose had a blood alcohol level of 0.23—over four times the legal limit—when the crash occurred. Prosecutors noted her failure to stop or render assistance as a significant aggravating factor in the case.
Court Verdict and Sentencing Details
District Court Judge Nicolas Alexandrides handed down the guilty verdict, emphasizing that a prudent driver would have detected Walsh on the road and taken evasive action. While the court recognized Walsh made a poor decision in crossing at that moment, it ruled that Willgoose’s dangerous driving and intoxication were the primary causes of the fatal incident.
Judge Alexandrides described Willgoose’s claims of being unaware of the crash as “implausible,” citing the loud impact when her vehicle struck Walsh.
Family’s Reaction and Statement
Christine Walsh, Anthony Walsh’s widow, expressed relief at the verdict but also acknowledged the shared tragedy of the event. “There are no winners out of this. Anthony has lost his life, and she [Willgoose] will have to face the consequences of her choices,” she said.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
Prosecutors argued for Willgoose’s bail to be revoked, citing the inevitability of a prison sentence. However, the court declined the request and instead suspended Willgoose’s license for the first time since the incident. She is scheduled to return to court in February for sentencing.