A Crown prosecutor is seeking five years in jail for a man who pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after he was involved in the death of a 24-year-old Irish tech worker in Vancouver.
Alexandre Romero-Arata, 28, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death in November 2023 in connection with the June 19, 2022, incident that claimed the life of Eoghan Byrne.
Romero-Arata appeared before Vancouver Provincial Court Judge Reginald Harris Dec. 16 as prosecutor Mark Myhre and defence lawyer Sarah Leamon made their sentencing submissions.
Leamon suggested a sentence of two-three years. The court heard Romero-Arata would get a 912-day credit for the 608 days he has spent in custody.
Leamon said the situation has been “devastating” for Byrne's family and friends.
Byrne’s family sat in the gallery of the courtroom, crying and holding a framed photograph of him.
Driver breached licence conditions
Byrne and a friend were crossing West 4th Avenue at Arbutus Street on the late evening of the incident when he was struck and killed.
The driver failed to stop or offer assistance, the charge also said.
Romero-Arata was initially charged with criminal negligence causing death, failure to stop at the scene of an accident, and public mischief.
Harris said Romero-Arata was driving under an learner plate condition at the time of the incident. The judge said Romero-Arata had breached the conditions of that permit by driving with alcohol in his system and having a passenger with him.
Prosecutors are also seeking a five-year driving prohibition.
Romero-Arata had been released on $5,000 bail March 10, 2023, with a 24-hour house arrest order. Two months later, he was back in custody after warrants were issued for his arrest.
