Evie Lyn Butterworth Jailed for Fatal Kwinana Freeway Crash – November 28, 2024

What happened

Incident Overview

On Thursday, January 11, 2023, a fatal single-vehicle collision occurred on the Kwinana Freeway in Baldivis, Western Australia, resulting in the death of 21-year-old Abbey Sheriff. The crash was caused by Evie Lyn Butterworth, 30, who was driving at approximately 47 kilometres per hour over the speed limit while under the influence of methylamphetamine, cocaine, and cannabis.

Butterworth initially claimed to have been sideswiped by another vehicle, but this account was later found to be false. On November 28, 2024, she was sentenced to nine years and six months in jail after pleading guilty to manslaughter in May 2024.

Location and Time

The collision occurred on the Kwinana Freeway in Baldivis, Western Australia, on Thursday, January 11, 2023.

Vehicles Involved

Vehicle 1

• Driver: Evie Lyn Butterworth, 30 years old
• Condition: Under the influence of methylamphetamine, cocaine, and cannabis
• Speed: Approximately 47 km/h over the speed limit

Vehicle 2

• Driver: Abbey Sheriff, 21 years old

Injuries / Fatalities

Fatalities

• 21-year-old Abbey Sheriff (deceased at scene)

Injuries

• None reported.

Community Impact

The crash had a devastating impact on Abbey Sheriff’s family and friends. Her parents expressed their grief and anger outside the court, stating that their lives have been forever changed. In response, they donated their daughter’s car to the RAC to be used in a road safety campaign.

Emergency Response

Emergency services attended the scene on the Kwinana Freeway following the collision on January 11, 2023. Abbey Sheriff was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Investigation

Western Australia Police investigated the fatal crash. The investigation revealed that Butterworth had been driving at excessive speed while under the influence of multiple drugs. She initially provided a false account of the incident, claiming to have been sideswiped by another vehicle, but this was later disproven.

Butterworth pleaded guilty to manslaughter in May 2024. On November 28, 2024, she was sentenced to nine years and six months imprisonment. She will be eligible for parole after serving seven years and six months. The judge emphasised the seriousness of her actions, noting that they demonstrated a complete disregard for the safety of others.

Appeal for Information

This matter has been concluded through the court proceedings. Anyone with information about road safety concerns or dangerous driving practices is encouraged to contact Western Australia Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.