A Clarenville courtroom disclosed on Friday that the alcohol content in Austin Deir’s blood during a fatal highway crash will not be a determining factor in his sentencing. Deir faced charges in January 2024 following a collision that resulted in the deaths of Haley Keating and Erin Pretty, both aged 22, as a result of an SUV he was driving colliding head-on with a smaller vehicle. He admitted to dangerous driving causing death charges in April.
During the court session on Friday, known as a Gardiner hearing for cases with disputed facts post-guilty plea, evidence indicated that Deir had consumed three to four whiskey glasses the night before the incident. Nevertheless, it was revealed that Deir’s blood-alcohol level was below the legal limit when tested. Additionally, it was mentioned in court that Deir’s blood sample contained medication for anxiety.
Judge Andrew Brown’s decision considered testimonies from law enforcement, medical professionals, and Deir’s spouse to ascertain that the Crown did not sufficiently demonstrate that alcohol played a role in the collision. Deir had impaired driving causing death charges conditionally withdrawn upon pleading guilty to the other offenses in April.
Upon exiting the courtroom, emotions were tense as Deir encountered both his family members and the relatives and friends of Keating and Pretty. Deir’s upcoming court appearance is set for December, where victim impact statements from 49 individuals are anticipated.
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