A woman has been sentenced to jail following a crash in Boondall that caused the death of an elderly passenger she considered a close personal friend.
Background to the Incident
Barbara Lee Gordon, 66, was sentenced in the Brisbane District Court after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death. The incident occurred on 6 April 2024, when Ms Gordon drove through a red light at the intersection of Sandgate Road and Roghan Road in Boondall.
The crash led to the death of 91-year-old Irene Holdway, who had been travelling as a passenger in Ms Gordon’s vehicle. The women had just finished grocery shopping before the collision.
Details of the Collision
The court heard Ms Gordon attempted to turn onto Sandgate Road but failed to stop at a red light that had been active for 47 seconds. Her vehicle, a White Toyota Scarlet, passed between two rows of stationary cars and entered the intersection, where it collided with a Ford Ranger and a Toyota Hiace.
While the other drivers were unharmed, Ms Gordon sustained a fractured spine. Ms Holdway died five days later from injuries to her neck and chest.
Sentencing and Circumstances
Judge Vicki Loury imposed a two-year prison sentence, to be suspended after Ms Gordon serves three months in actual custody. The court acknowledged Ms Gordon’s lack of prior criminal or traffic history and noted that she was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.
Prosecutors described the incident as a brief lapse in judgment with severe consequences. Ms Gordon, who met Ms Holdway through lawn bowls, had referred to her as a maternal figure and has since given up driving.
Community Response
During sentencing, the court acknowledged that Ms Holdway’s family requested leniency. They recognised Ms Gordon’s long-standing friendship and loyalty to the deceased, referring to her as the most consistent companion in Ms Holdway’s life.
Judge Loury noted that Ms Gordon had been a respected member of the community and would carry the burden of the incident for the rest of her life.
Final Orders
In addition to the custodial sentence, Ms Gordon’s driver’s licence has been disqualified for two years. The judge acknowledged the emotional toll and lasting remorse that Ms Gordon expressed during sentencing.
Published 14-June-2025
