Overview of the Tragic Incident
A young driver, Harry Lock, was sentenced to jail after causing a fatal accident by hitting a cyclist while inhaling laughing gas and driving recklessly with his knees.
In the incident that occurred on August 7, 2021, Harry Lock, 24, collided with Maria Perez-Gonzalez, a 53-year-old mother of three who was crossing a street on her bicycle in Exeter.
Details of the Victim
Maria Perez-Gonzalez, a dedicated healthcare worker, tragically lost her life just as she was about to embark on a new journey to become a nurse, anticipating a reunion with her eldest son after two decades of separation.
Unfortunately, her life was cut short due to Lock’s irresponsible actions, as reported by MailOnline.
Actions Leading to the Tragic Outcome
Lock, accompanied by a female friend, decided to indulge in nitrous oxide, commonly known as ‘hippy crack,’ during their journey back to Plymouth. Despite warnings from his companion about the risks, Lock continued to inhale the gas while driving with his knees, ultimately leading to the fatal accident.
After the collision, Lock made futile attempts to conceal evidence and deceive the authorities by asking his passenger to lie about the traffic light sequence.
Judicial Response
After initially denying his culpability, Lock eventually pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. He was sentenced to three years and four months in prison by Judge David Evans at Exeter Crown Court and will face a driving ban for two years following his release.
The judge highlighted Lock’s reckless behavior and impaired judgment due to nitrous oxide inhalation, emphasizing the severe consequences of driving under the influence.
Law Enforcement’s Verdict
Reflecting on the devastating impact of Lock’s actions, Sgt. Troy Bennett from Devon & Cornwall Police stressed the importance of responsible driving and warned against driving while impaired by substances like alcohol or drugs.
The tragic loss of Maria Perez-Gonzalez serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers associated with negligent and reckless driving behavior in today’s society.
Family of Maria Perez-Gonzalez Speaks Out
The family of Maria Perez-Gonzalez described her as an extraordinary woman who always lent a helping hand to those around her. Her sons expressed their sorrow over her untimely passing, highlighting her resilience and positivity through challenging times. Perez-Gonzalez, a dedicated healthcare assistant at the RD&E, was on the brink of starting a nursing course before her tragic demise. Her family shared their sentiments in the wake of her unfortunate loss.
Alison Hernandez, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, extended her sympathies to Perez-Gonzalez’s loved ones. She emphasized the preventable nature of Maria’s death and appreciated the legal action taken against Harry Lock. Hernandez stressed the importance of highlighting the severe repercussions of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, underscoring the irresponsibility of such actions and their potentially catastrophic outcomes.
Takeaway Warning Message
Reflecting on this tragic incident, Hernandez cautioned individuals against driving while impaired, reminding them of the grave consequences that could follow. She noted that Lock’s imprisonment would serve as a lasting reminder of the irreversible impact of his reckless choices on Maria’s family.
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