Family of SA crash victim ‘will never forgive’ killer driver John Tsalapatis

·

Heartbroken family members of a “selfless and gifted” schoolteacher who died just days after a crash south of Adelaide shared their profound grief with a court, stating that they lost the “glue” in their family.

John Tsalapatis 59, of Keswick, drove through a McLaren Vale intersection without stopping, striking and killing 61-year-old Bernice Sternberg who was a passenger in a car at the time, being driven by her husband.

According to ABC, Tsalapatis was found guilty last month for causing death by dangerous driving. On Tuesday, prosecutor Jim Pearce KC read a victim impact statement to the District Court on behalf of Sternberg’s husband Rony, who described how his life had changed since her death.

“I look at Bernice’s picture … and I say, ‘I miss you so much, honey, I wish you were here’, and I get emotional and I cry…It could have been prevented if he [Tsalapatis] only stopped at this intersection.” Rony said.

Shrine to Bernice Sternberg at McLaren Vale Primary school. Photo Adelaide Now.
Shrine to Bernice Sternberg at McLaren Vale Primary school. Photo: Adelaide Now.
John Tsalapatis leaving Adelaide Magistrates Court with his lawyer. Photo NCA NewsWire David Mariuz. Photo Adelaide Now.
John Tsalapatis leaving Adelaide Magistrates Court with his lawyer. Photo NCA NewsWire/David Mariuz. Photo: Adelaide Now.

“I will never forgive him for what he has done to me and my whole family, causing the death of my darling Bernice”.

The court heard Sternberg’s brother, David Field was in the intensive care unit (ICU) at FMC when his sister arrived and was recovering from injuries sustained in an unrelated crash two weeks earlier.

“Her life touched many people and the world was truly a better place for having her in it,” Field said.

Tsalapatis’ lawyer, Jane Abbey KC told the court her client felt “a deep and genuine remorse” over the death of Sternberg yet also stated his actions were “not criminal in nature”.

Abbey urged Judge, Nick Alexandrides to impose a suspended sentence, or, a home detention sentence.

Tsalapatis will be sentenced next month.

Source: ABC

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

AHEPA NSW celebrates Greek heroism with unveiling of ‘Maniatisses’ painting

The unveiling of a new painting by artist Angela Kiki, titled ‘The Maniatisses’, marked a moving tribute by AHEPA NSW.

From Chadstone to the Galaxy Stage: How Chleo Eve uses pageants to champion change

Pageants have evolved into platforms where determined young women can make a name for themselves and stand up for causes they believe in.

Navigating menopause with confidence: A conversation with Greek women experts

The Food for Thought Network Inc. is inviting people to a significant online event focused on menopause awareness and empowerment.

Niki Louca shares recipe for the easiest five-minute Artisan Bread

Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for the easiest five-minute Artisan Bread with The Greek Herald.

Dr Michael Festas to give seminar on the Peloponnese and the Greek Revolution

The Greek administration undertook the collection of statistical data concerning the population and settlements of the Peloponnese.

You May Also Like

Axion Esti: A night in Melbourne that resonated with the Greek soul

The Melbourne Recital Centre was filled to capacity last night as the Greek Community of Melbourne presented "Axion Esti: Worthy It Is."

NT woman pleads guilty to causing the death of her 7-year-old son Mehali Pastrikos

Andrea Groening admitted to smoking cannabis prior to a high-speed crash that killed her son, Mehali Pastrikos, and a close friend.

Jay Langadinos sues psychiatrist for professional negligence over gender transition

In a Sydney Morning Herald article today, Jay Langadinos has detailed her gender transition experience. Langadinos was 19 years old when she first visited psychiatrist...