A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in New Hampshire when a 1-year-old girl, Rebecca Cole, tragically lost her life on her first birthday after being run over by an alleged drunk driver. Her 11-year-old sister also suffered serious injuries in the same incident.
The alleged driver, 23-year-old Justin LaClair, faces multiple charges, including aggravated driving while intoxicated, reckless conduct, and conduct after an accident. This devastating event has left the community in shock as the family grieves the loss of their daughter.
Details of the Tragic Accident
The horrific incident occurred Thursday afternoon around 4 p.m. near Lake Avenue and Belmont Street in Manchester, New Hampshire. The two young girls were crossing the street on their way to the park when they were struck by a vehicle.
Police responded to the scene and found both girls seriously injured. They were immediately rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of medical staff, Rebecca Cole succumbed to her injuries on Saturday, which was her first birthday. Her sister, who sustained severe injuries including a broken arm, femur, clavicle, and a punctured lung, continues to receive treatment at the hospital.
The Alleged Drunk Driver and His Actions
The driver, Justin LaClair, was later found a few blocks away from the scene of the crash. Police reported that LaClair had attempted to walk away from the scene but was quickly apprehended and arrested. Authorities stated that he admitted to drinking before the incident but claimed not to remember hitting the girls.
According to surveillance footage, the crash was especially violent. The video showed the impact sending the two girls flying through the air. Prosecutors described LaClair’s driving as reckless, with LaClair allegedly speeding at such high speeds that his car went airborne after crossing over one of the streets.
Family’s Grief and the Community’s Shock
Rebecca’s father, Steven Cole, expressed his heartbreak at a vigil held on Sunday, Father’s Day, lamenting the loss of his young daughter and the serious injuries to his other child. Through tears, he asked, “Why, why take away my little girl?” He added, “All we wanted to do was go to the park and play,” reflecting the deep sadness and devastation felt by the family.
Legal Proceedings
Justin LaClair faces serious charges following the accident. These include aggravated driving while intoxicated, reckless conduct, and conduct after an accident. At his arraignment, the prosecution highlighted the reckless nature of the crash, emphasizing the high speed at which LaClair was driving.
Despite his attorney arguing for a bond, claiming that LaClair had no prior history of reckless driving or violence, the judge denied bond, ordering him to remain in jail.
The tragic death of 1-year-old Rebecca Cole and the serious injuries to her sister have shocked the local community and devastated the family. Justin LaClair’s reckless actions, allegedly fueled by alcohol, have forever altered the lives of the Cole family. As the legal process unfolds, the family and community continue to mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon.
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