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Kooyong Drunk Driver Jailed for 11 Years in Fatal Car‑Park Crash

Judge Robyn Harper called the crash a catastrophic collision entirely of his own doing.

Overview

  • Connor Mathiasson, 24, received an 11-year prison term with parole eligibility after seven years and a nine-year licence disqualification.
  • Elise Hodder, 24, died after being struck and dragged under the car, while her friend Emma Swords suffered severe injuries and later relearned to walk.
  • Court evidence showed Mathiasson was unlicensed, heavily intoxicated at three to four times the legal alcohol limit, and had been speeding and drinking behind the wheel.
  • He pleaded guilty to culpable driving causing death and negligently causing serious injury.
  • The court heard 25 victim impact statements, with the judge noting immeasurable grief as family and friends packed the courtroom.