Accused hit-run killer driver Lauren Jean Willgoose’s trial postponed over flu fears
Questions over the health of the lawyer accused of a fatal drink driving hit-run crash have postponed her trial.
Police & Courts
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The trial of a lawyer and allegedly drunk killer driver has been postponed due to illness – and over fears she may have influenza or RSV.
On Thursday, Lauren Jean Willgoose entered the District Court unmasked and flanked by supporters, for her continuing death by dangerous driving trial.
In court, she donned a black cotton mask and sat in the dock as her barrister, Paul Rice KC, told Judge Nick Alexandrides an issue had arisen.
“Overnight she has fallen unwell … she has had a RAT test that came back negative and is able to continue today,” he said.
“She has not been tested for influenza or RSV.
“I’m not sure how Your Honour would want to deal with it, whether you would want to make some alternative arrangement or if you are happy to proceed.”
Judge Alexandrides said that was not a simple question.
“The progress of this trial is one issue, as is the welfare of everyone in the courtroom,” he said.
“I don’t have to be in proximity to your client but other staff do have to be – and I’m not inclined to take risks.”
Ms Willgoose, 31, pleaded not guilty to one aggravated count of causing death by dangerous driving and to leaving an accident scene after causing death by careless driving.
Prosecutors have alleged that, in June 2021, she drank more than a litre of red wine before getting behind the wheel of the car that “simply drove straight through” Mr Walsh.
They have also alleged she ignored the “loud, significant bang” made by the collision and instead drove 3km to her home “effectively leaving Mr Walsh for dead”.
They have alleged that, instead of calling police, Ms Willgoose called local criminal law firms “further revealing” she knew she had been in a hit-run.
On Thursday, prosecutor Michael Foundas said he was ready to continue his case but conceded a delay would not pose insurmountable issues.
“It should be manageable … it will not cause difficulties that can’t be remedied,” he said.
Mr Rice said his client would “move quickly” to seek medical attention and inform the court of any developments.
Judge Alexandrides remanded Ms Wilgoose on continuing bail – and ordered she see her GP and undergo further medical testing – until Friday.
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