car crash

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Francis Lawrence, the man convicted in the car crash that killed 15-year-old Veronica Gashi on Highway 40, has been granted parole less than two years after his sentencing. The decision comes from the Parole Board of Canada, which cited a low risk of reoffending after reviewing Lawrence’s conduct while incarcerated and his plans for reintegration.

The fatal collision happened on March 6, 2021, on Highway 40 Eastbound in Kirkland. Emergency crews responded to a multi-vehicle crash just after 6:30 p.m. Several cars were involved, with two vehicles destroyed and burned—one landing on its roof. Police quickly suspected street racing as a factor. Four people were taken to hospital. Veronica Gashi, who was 15 at the time, died as a result of the collision.

Investigators determined that Lawrence had been driving at excessive speed. He was arrested and charged with reckless driving causing death. The case drew public attention as police and local officials pointed to a rise in street racing incidents, particularly among younger drivers.

On February 1, 2024, Lawrence was sentenced to 54 months in prison for his role in the crash. The court found that his driving demonstrated a wanton disregard for the safety of others. He began serving his sentence immediately following his conviction.

The Parole Board’s recent decision allows Lawrence to serve the remainder of his sentence in the community under supervision and with conditions. The Board noted that Lawrence had complied with institutional rules and showed remorse for his actions. In its written decision, the Board found that he posed a low risk to public safety and that his release would support his successful reintegration.

Lawrence will remain subject to standard parole conditions, including regular reporting to a parole officer and restrictions on driving. Any breach of these conditions could result in his return to custody for the remainder of his sentence.

The Highway 40 crash and its aftermath have brought renewed scrutiny to street racing and speeding on Quebec roads. Police continue to emphasize the dangers of reckless driving, particularly among young drivers. The case remains a reference point in ongoing discussions about road safety and sentencing in fatal crash cases. n