The WA Supreme Court.
Camera IconThe WA Supreme Court. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Rockingham: speeding drunk driver who killed pedestrian jailed

Angie Raphael/AAPWeekend Kwinana Courier

A drunk driver who was speeding when he lost control of a car and hit a pedestrian walking on a footpath in Shoalwater has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in a West Australian prison.

Shane Laurence Walsh, 27, failed to negotiate a bend, mounted a kerb and struck 62-year-old Peta Anne Agostinelli as she walked in Shoalwater in March.

Walsh, who had an alcohol reading of 0.193, reached speeds of 107 km/h before he lost control and was travelling at 67 km/h at the time of the crash, the WA Supreme Court heard on Monday.

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Defence counsel Seamus Rafferty said his client had written a letter to the victim’s family that demonstrated his “utter remorse (for the crime) in his sober state”.

Mr Rafferty also described the victim as a dearly loved member of her family.

Justice Jeremy Curthoys said why Walsh chose to drive that day would remain “one of the great mysteries” of his life.

“Your life goes on but her life is finished,” he said.

The court heard Walsh had no prior record, had good employment and stopped drinking alcohol following the crash.

Walsh, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter, must spend at least two-and-a-half years behind bars before he can be eligible for parole.

He will also be banned from driving for six years.