The teenager accused over a fatal crash on Australia Day that killed expecting mother Katherine Leadbetter and her partner Matthew Field is facing extra charges – but with no specific charge levelled in relation to the death of the couple’s unborn child.
Ms Leadbetter, 31, and Mr Field, 37, were killed in Alexandra Hills near Brisbane while out walking their dogs on January 26.
At the time of their death, Ms Leadbetter was pregnant with the couple’s unborn son, Miles.
A 17-year-old boy was charged with a number of offences including murder and burglary.
Now, he can add a few more to that list, including two more counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle (whilst adversely affected by an intoxicating substance), two counts of failure to fulfil duties at the scene of a traffic crash and one count each of wilful damage, driving whilst disqualified and possessing tainted property.
Assistant Commissioner Brian Codd confirmed that upon receipt of expert legal advice, a specific charge of killing an unborn child was not available in this case.
“The death of unborn baby Miles will be presented as an aggravating element of the murder charge relating to death of his mother Kate,” Assistant Commissioner Codd said.
“This advice has been provided to the families and we will continue to support and engage with them throughout our investigation and subsequent court proceedings.”
Heartbroken family and friends paid their respects to the couple in a private memorial on Monday.
The ceremony took place at Iona College in Lindum, where Mr Field went to school.
The couple’s dogs, one of which was injured in the crash, was at the service.
“Our families would like to thank everyone who joined us to say goodbye and extend our sincerest thanks to the wider community for the support and compassion it has shown us,” the family said in a statement provided by police.
Both families thanked authorities for their efforts in the aftermath of the tragedy.
“To the first responders and police who looked after Matt, Kate and Miles and who have supported our families throughout this difficult time — words cannot express the depth of our gratitude for the way you have cared for each and every one of us,” they said.
“We are incredibly grateful for everything you have done.”
They also thanked the staff at Iona College for going to”great lengths” to help them say goodbye to the trio.
“It was their wonderful assistance which allowed us to remain COVID compliant today, through the use of their school halls and livestreaming capacity to ensure we met all guidelines,” the family said.
“Our families need time together to grieve. Our hearts go out to everyone missing them today, and we thank you for honouring their memories with us.”
Hundreds of family and friends gathered at the scene of the crash a day after the incident for a vigil to remember the couple.
Among the crowd were Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll who also paid their respects.
Relatives of Ms Leadbetter and Mr Field praised the “kindness” of the Alexandra Hills community during the candlelight vigil.
