Amherstburg police says distracted driving was a factor in a crash that claimed the life of a LaSalle teen earlier this month.
Investigators say on Sept. 6, 18-year-old Emily Bernauer was travelling along the 1300 block of 2nd Concession Road North, when the car left the roadway and struck a mailbox. As a result, Bernauer was partially ejected from the vehicle.
She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police say their investigation determined that distracted driving contributed to the collision, and that Bernaur was not wearing a seatbelt.
“This accident is a tragic lesson in why we have laws for testing while driving and wearing your seat belt,” says Sr. Const. Shawn McCurdy. “This unfortunate accident was preventable.”
In Ontario, it's illegal to use a cellular device while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers can be penalized with a $280 fine, but McCurdy says the consequences can be much worse.
The investigation is into the crash is ongoing and police are asking anyone with information about the collision to contact them at 519-736-3622 or by calling Crime Stoppers.
