A tradie from Queensland was sentenced to five years in prison today for the fatal hit-and-run of Vietnam War veteran Ian Colwell in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. Joshua Alexander Scott was driving his girlfriend’s car when he ignored a red traffic light near the Chermside shopping centre, colliding with the 72-year-old veteran who was out for his morning walk.
Following the incident in March of last year, Scott attempted to evade accountability by setting the car on fire in a nearby area, dangerously close to a house. He initially planned to report it as stolen and concocted a false story to cover his actions but confessed to his boss later that day.
In court, Scott’s actions were deemed “callous,” with judges highlighting his alarming driving history that included 46 previous offences, 29 of which were for speeding. He described the moment of the collision as a mere lapse in attention, stating he was “daydreaming” while behind the wheel.
Scott was given a five-year sentence but is eligible for parole as soon as November. Once released, he will not be able to obtain a Queensland driver’s licence unless granted special permission.