Summary

A man has had his charges updated after being accused of causing the deaths of two young women in a horrendous crash on the Trans-Canada Highway, with impairment from drugs or alcohol suspected.

Details of the Incident

Austin Deir, a 71-year-old from Mount Pearl, now faces four serious charges: two counts of impaired driving causing death, and two counts of dangerous driving causing death. The accident, which occurred on January 21 near Arnold’s Cove, led to the deaths of 22-year-olds Haley Keating and Erin Pretty.

Court Proceedings

Deir appeared in Clarenville provincial court recently, where the amendments to his charges were officially noted. Despite the severity of charges, he remains free under certain conditions, represented by his lawyer without the need for his presence at the court hearing.

Investigation Update

Police noted signs of impairment at the scene of the crash. Nearly a thousand pages of documents including lab results and a crash reconstruction report are with the defense, with more updates expected within the next 60 days.

Future Proceedings

The case is set to be revisited on November 29, with the expectation of crucial decisions regarding the defendant's next steps.

Community Response

The community mourns the loss of two promising lives and awaits justice. There is speculation on whether this tragedy will spur tougher regulations on impaired driving.