A man who struck and killed a 10-year-old boy while driving at more than double the speed limit tearfully apologised to the victim’s family as he was sentenced to prison. Charlie Lowe, described as “intelligent, bright and loving,” tragically passed away the day after he was hit by a car in front of his devastated mother and younger brother. The driver, John Harkins, was speeding at over 50mph in a 20mph zone when the fatal collision occurred, leading a judge to remark that the consequences of his actions would stay with him forever.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that Charlie’s mother, Lisa Lowe, had stopped her car on Abingdon Road in Walton and was letting her two sons out of the vehicle when the accident happened. Charlie was struck by Harkins’ car and sustained injuries that proved fatal, despite efforts to save him at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. Harkins, who claimed he had not been aware of his speed at the time, expressed deep remorse for the incident during police interviews.
Prosecutors revealed that Harkins had been grossly exceeding the speed limit multiple times on his journey home, as indicated by electronic systems in his car. Despite his prior clean record, he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison. Additionally, he was banned from driving for over eight years and will need to pass an extended retest before regaining his license.
In court, Harkins turned to Charlie’s family and tearfully conveyed his sorrow, saying, “I’m sorry, I’m really sorry.” The judge acknowledged the devastating impact of Charlie’s loss on his family and emphasised that no sentence could truly reflect the magnitude of their grief. Harkins was urged to remember the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life and to appreciate the gravity of the tragedy he had caused.
The sentence, which also included a lengthy driving ban, aimed to serve justice for young Charlie Lowe and his grieving family. The court proceedings underscored the gravity of dangerous driving and its devastating consequences, urging drivers to be vigilant and prioritise road safety at all times. The case serves as a tragic reminder of the profound impact of reckless driving on individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of responsibility and caution behind the wheel.