A 20-year-old man from Linne was fatally injured when two speedboats collided on the Maas in Roermond. His then 18-year-old girlfriend suffered serious injuries that will affect her for life. The prosecutor stated: “The consequences have left indescribable suffering for the relatives, loved ones, friends, and their surroundings, which is still felt today.”
On that Sunday afternoon in September, the collision resulted in one death and multiple injuries. The location is known to be very busy on sunny summer days, with a mix of fast and slow vessels. Investigations indicated that risks during the accident were underestimated. The two drivers, aged 55 and 65, were operating at high speeds in an inappropriate area. The 55-year-old, who had no boating license, was not the captain; that role was held by the 59-year-old suspect from Roermond. The prosecutor emphasized that as the vessels master, he was negligent and should have intervened.
Sentencing Demands
The Public Prosecution Service demanded 180 hours of community service, with 90 days of substitute detention if the community service was not satisfactorily completed. Additionally, they sought a one-year revocation of the boating licenses and compensation for the now 21-year-old victim with serious injuries. For the 55-year-old suspect, they propose a guilty verdict without sentencing. The prosecutor highlighted the specific circumstances of this suspect: “This individual has had to endure the nightmare of every parent. He had to bury his son while also being responsible for this tragic accident.”
The judge will deliver a verdict in four weeks.