Title: Senior Woman’s Sentence for Tragic Girl Guides Crash Pending Appeal
In a heart-wrenching case that has gripped London, Ont., a 79-year-old woman was convicted of a devastating car crash that claimed the life of an eight-year-old girl and left seven others injured. Petronella “Ronnie” McNorgan, a retired teacher, was sentenced by Ontario Superior Court Justice Pamela Hebner to two years less a day of house arrest, followed by three years of probation with a driving ban. However, the full terms of the sentence are on hold pending an appeal filed by McNorgan’s lawyer, Phillip Millar.
The tragedy unfolded on the evening of Nov. 30, 2021, when McNorgan drove her Honda CRV through an intersection at high speed, striking a group of Girl Guides as they walked on a sidewalk. The impact of the crash was devastating, with some of the troop members suffering life-altering injuries.
During the sentencing hearings, emotional victim impact statements were given by the parents of the young girl who tragically lost her life. McNorgan, in a letter of apology to the court, expressed deep sorrow but did not fully acknowledge her actions, drawing criticism from Justice Hebner.
Despite McNorgan’s clean record and contributions to the community, Hebner emphasized the need for accountability and community safety by imposing a driving ban. The sentence includes provisions for McNorgan’s age and health conditions, allowing her to leave her residence for essential tasks.
Millar’s appeal seeks to prevent McNorgan from facing jail time, citing concerns over her health. While the case awaits resolution, McNorgan remains prohibited from driving. The courtroom was filled with emotion as family members of the victims absorbed the judge’s decision.
As the community awaits the outcome of the appeal, the tragic incident continues to spark discussions about accountability and the consequences of negligent actions.
In a heart-wrenching case that has gripped London, Ont., a 79-year-old woman was convicted of a devastating car crash that claimed the life of an eight-year-old girl and left seven others injured. Petronella “Ronnie” McNorgan, a retired teacher, was sentenced by Ontario Superior Court Justice Pamela Hebner to two years less a day of house arrest, followed by three years of probation with a driving ban. However, the full terms of the sentence are on hold pending an appeal filed by McNorgan’s lawyer, Phillip Millar.
The tragedy unfolded on the evening of Nov. 30, 2021, when McNorgan drove her Honda CRV through an intersection at high speed, striking a group of Girl Guides as they walked on a sidewalk. The impact of the crash was devastating, with some of the troop members suffering life-altering injuries.
During the sentencing hearings, emotional victim impact statements were given by the parents of the young girl who tragically lost her life. McNorgan, in a letter of apology to the court, expressed deep sorrow but did not fully acknowledge her actions, drawing criticism from Justice Hebner.
Despite McNorgan’s clean record and contributions to the community, Hebner emphasized the need for accountability and community safety by imposing a driving ban. The sentence includes provisions for McNorgan’s age and health conditions, allowing her to leave her residence for essential tasks.
Millar’s appeal seeks to prevent McNorgan from facing jail time, citing concerns over her health. While the case awaits resolution, McNorgan remains prohibited from driving. The courtroom was filled with emotion as family members of the victims absorbed the judge’s decision.
As the community awaits the outcome of the appeal, the tragic incident continues to spark discussions about accountability and the consequences of negligent actions.
