Alicia Kemp, 25, was involved in a tragic incident in central Perth on the evening of May 31, when she struck pedestrian Thanh Phan, 51, while riding an e-scooter. Phan sustained critical injuries and passed away in hospital several days later.
Kemp has since faced charges of dangerous driving occasioning death while under the influence of alcohol, as well as another charge relating to bodily harm. She appeared in court via video link, where she pleaded guilty to the charge of dangerous driving causing death. The prosecution subsequently dropped the bodily harm charge.
Defence lawyer Mike Tudori spoke to the media following the court proceedings, stating that Kemp acknowledged her reckless behaviour that night and wished for an expedient resolution to the legal process. Tudori noted that Kemp, a young foreign national, is feeling apprehensive about her situation in the prison system and is eager to proceed towards sentencing. He expressed hope for the sentencing process to be concluded by Christmas.
Tudori elaborated that Kemp’s actions were foolish and that she is keen to move on from the traumatic events. He shared that her family in the United Kingdom is concerned for her well-being, but she is receiving support from her boyfriend in Western Australia.
Phan’s family has expressed their devastation over the loss of their loved one, describing him as a cherished husband, father of two, brother, and friend.
Kemp sustained minor injuries in the collision, and her 26-year-old female passenger was also taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. After being previously denied bail, Kemp remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in the District Court on October 31 for a sentencing mention.