The driver of the vehicle involved in the traffic fatality incident that occurred in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera on Tuesday 15th April 2014. 48 – year old Jack Christopher Botero of New York, USA, was charged by police in the death of pedestrian, 32 – year old Bobby Branville Thompson of Palmetto Point.
Botero was formally charged with ‘Killing in the course of dangerous driving’ (according to the Road Traffic Act section 44(1) chapter 220), in magistrates court in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, shortly after 2pm on Thursday, April 17th, 2014.

He plead guilty to the charge, and his lawyer expressed his remorse over the death of Mr. Thompson.  The defendant’s lawyer also stated that the defendant was neither drunk nor under the influence of any substance at the time of the incident, further explaining that Botero, along with his wife and two children, who were also in the vehicle, were going to dinner. 

Immediate family members of Mr. Thompson were present in court for the proceedings.  Botero was given a sentence of a $5,000 fine – payable to the court or one (1) year of imprisonment on default of payment. 

The defendant’s admission of guilt and the corresponding sentence, would now allow the family of the victim to seek financial redress in civil court if they so choose. 

When asked how they felt about the proceedings, a family member expressed that they did appreciate hearing the defense express remorse.  In answer to whether or not the family would move to begin a suit in civil court, they said that would be a decision made by the family after discussion and consultation.

Police at the scene of the deadly incident in Palmetto Point on Tuesday night.