BBC Breakfast Viewers Heartbroken as Family of Baby Killed in Motorway Crash Shares Emotional Story
A grieving family is calling for changes in the law after losing an eight-month-old baby and his mother in a devastating motorway crash caused by a drunk driver.
In an emotional interview on BBC Breakfast with Jon Kay and Sally Nugent, Shalorna Warner and Lareesa Warner shared their heart-wrenching story and their campaign for stricter penalties.
The tragic accident occurred on the A1, where Shalorna’s eight-month-old son, Zackary Blades, and her sister, Karlene Warner, lost their lives when their vehicle was struck by Darryl Anderson, a drunk driver. Anderson was found to be three times over the legal alcohol limit and was driving at speeds of up to 141 mph at the time of the crash in May.
Anderson has been sentenced to 17 years in prison and received a 21-year driving ban. However, the Warner family believes these penalties are insufficient and is campaigning for life-long driving bans for those found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving, reports the Express.
During their BBC Breakfast appearance, Shalorna expressed her deep grief, saying, “Zackary and Karlene, they were both taken, they were so innocent. They were both taken so tragically, it doesn’t sit right with me as a mother and a sister to sit and let that just be normal, it’s not normal.”
She added, “If we can do something to help the next families, in us getting a bit of justice, then we’re doing something for them both and that’s why I need to do it.” Shalorna highlighted the inadequacy of Anderson’s driving ban, noting that much of it would be served while he is in prison.
Lareesa, reflecting on her nephew, shared an emotional moment with the hosts, saying, “He came to my house on Wednesday and we never saw him often because of where Shalorna lived. I didn’t think he’d remember me. Then he put his hands out to me, and I was like, this is the start of the bond we’re going to have.
Shalorna said he doesn’t put his hands out to everyone. I just knew—It’s all just been ripped away from us.” Shalorna also mentioned her sister’s other child, saying, “She was the best mum. They’re together now and I know he’s getting taken good care of. It does bring me a little bit of comfort, to know they’re together as well.”
Viewers praised the family’s bravery for speaking out. One person tweeted, “This is absolutely horrific! That poor baby, and her sister!! Can’t begin to understand how a surviving relative moves on from that!!”
Another shared, “Totally agree with this. Heartbreaking story.” “Mum has no words. The bravery of this mum and her sister” said one viewer. Another commented, “They have me in tears heartbreaking this one! Agree with them about the law being changed. Good luck girls. Please keep us posted on how it goes.”