Pensioner Sentenced After Fatal Accident Involving Schoolgirl in Carrickfergus

A pensioner from Co Antrim, who caused the death of an eight-year-old schoolgirl, has been handed a suspended sentence after a tragic accident in Carrickfergus. The incident occurred on High Street in August, when John Noble Lindsay, 92, struck Scarlett Rossborough with his car.

Lindsay, who admitted causing Scarlett’s death by dangerous driving, was excused from attending the hearing at Belfast Crown Court due to his current hospitalization. Judge Patricia Smyth stated that Lindsay would receive a ten-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, once he is well enough to be sentenced. He was also banned from driving for five years.

The loss of Scarlett has deeply affected her family and the local community. Judge Smyth expressed that nothing could bring back the young life lost and the tragedy has left Scarlett’s family devastated. Scarlett, a pupil at Linn Primary School in Larne, was described as a bright and passionate child who loved sports, music, and gymnastics. She was the “princess of the family” and was adored by those who knew her.

On the day of the accident, Scarlett was out with a group of children and adult leaders from a local community centre summer scheme, enjoying a trip to Carrick Castle. As they walked along the footpath on High Street, Lindsay’s car mounted the pavement and struck Scarlett and two other children. Lindsay had initially parked his car in a disabled space and, after exiting the vehicle, got back in and began trying to reposition it. Witnesses reported that the car moved slowly at first but suddenly accelerated, mounting the footpath and striking the children. Scarlett was tragically trapped between the car and a wall.

Two other children were thrown into a shop doorway but were not seriously injured. Despite efforts from the public to assist, Scarlett’s injuries were catastrophic, and she could not be saved.

Crown barrister David Russell KC noted that Lindsay’s car was traveling at a speed of 11 to 12 mph when the collision occurred. It was suggested that “pedal misapplication” or confusion on Lindsay’s part may have caused the accident, but there was no evidence to suggest it was deliberate.

In a statement, Lindsay expressed his deep regret and condolences to Scarlett’s family. His defense barrister, Frank O’Donoghue KC, highlighted that Lindsay had lived an exemplary life until the tragic incident and had surrendered his driving license the day after the accident. Lindsay, who has deteriorating health and is not expected to live much longer, has faced ongoing feelings of guilt and remorse.

The impact on Scarlett’s family has been profound, with her mother describing the tragedy as something that has “haunted” her. Scarlett’s mother has called for a new law—Scarlett’s Law—which would ban elderly individuals from driving to protect public safety.

Judge Smyth acknowledged the “exceptional circumstances” in Lindsay’s case, including his age, health issues, and unblemished driving record, but highlighted the risk elderly drivers pose to road safety. She remarked that if any positive outcome could arise from this case, it would be the implementation of Scarlett’s Law.

As Scarlett’s family continues to grieve, the case has sparked broader discussions about road safety and the potential dangers posed by elderly drivers.