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Judge puts off verdict in street racing trial

The trial wrapped up last week
street-race-crash
Court exhibit photo of April 4, 2014 crash scene Mapleview Drive West

Two young Barrie men accused of street racing in a fatal 2014  crash will have to wait until next month for a verdict at their trial. 

Justice Robert Gattrell was expected to deliver his decision Wednesday morning but when court reconvened he said he needed more time.

"I regret to inform you I have no judgement ready for today....These are serious charges with a number of factors and legal issues I need to deal with....I want to give them the consideration they deserve."

The trial wrapped up last week.

The young men, both now 20, pleaded not guilty to street racing causing death and street racing causing bodily harm. 

They were 17 at the time of the crash and cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Theresa Van Wieren-Wisch, 45, was killed instantly and her 13-year old son Ingo injured when their Toyota was struck by a BMW on Mapleview Drive West on April 4, 2014.

Wisch's husband, mother, sister and teenage son were among family members and friends who came to court and were bracing for the decision.

Her husband Kai hung his head upon hearing the verdict was postponed.

"It's very, very frustrating," he said as he left the courthouse, adding he wished the court could've sent advance notice about the delay. 

The families of both accused young men were also in attendance.

One of the accused hugged his mother before court  convened, as they too were preparing for the outcome that did not happen.

The judge is scheduled to deliver his verdict Nov 21. 


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Sue Sgambati

About the Author: Sue Sgambati

Sue has had a 30-year career in journalism working for print, radio and TV. She is a proud member of the Barrie community.
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