Seven-Year Sentence Upheld in Zallaq Cycling Crash
The First High Criminal Court of Appeal upheld a lower court ruling sentencing the defendant to seven years in prison in connection with a fatal road accident that killed two cyclists and injured two others on Zallaq Highway.
The verdict follows a case in which the defendant was found responsible for striking four cyclists after becoming distracted while driving.
According to court records, the accident occurred when the driver lost focus while attempting to retrieve a cigarette inside his vehicle, causing him to collide with members of the Laspag Cycling Group riding along Zallaq Road.
The crash claimed the lives of two cyclists at the scene, while two others sustained injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment. The collision also damaged the vehicle and the bicycles involved.
The Public Prosecution charged the defendant with possessing and consuming a psychotropic substance without legal authorisation, causing deaths and injuries through negligence, failing to provide assistance to victims, leaving the accident scene without informing authorities, causing property damage, and driving without due care and attention.
Investigations showed that the defendant left the scene following the crash without assisting the injured cyclists or contacting emergency services. He was later identified, arrested and referred to trial.
The Court of Appeal’s decision confirms the seven-year prison sentence issued by the lower court.
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