A man has admitted guilt in a tragic hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a motorcyclist in northern Victoria—an outcome that has left many stunned and raises difficult questions about accountability on the road. But here’s where it gets controversial: the man, who initially denied the charges and was preparing for trial, chose to change his plea recently, altering the course of this legal case.
David Graham Berry, 43, originally from Seymour, was behind the wheel of a stolen utility vehicle when he collided with a motorcyclist on the Maroondah Highway in Yarck back in May 2024. The motorcyclist, a 56-year-old man from nearby Alexandra, sadly passed away at the scene, highlighting a heartbreaking consequence of reckless and illegal driving.
In the Shepparton County Court this week, Berry admitted to culpable driving causing death while impaired by both alcohol and drugs. Additionally, he acknowledged failing to stop after the accident and operating a vehicle without a license. This wasn’t his first run-in with the law that day—he had stolen the utility vehicle from a hotel in Euroa before the fatal crash.
Berry had initially entered a plea of not guilty earlier this year in February, and the case was heading toward trial. However, his recent guilty plea has shifted the proceedings. His defence lawyer, Kestin Mildenhall, informed the court that they are awaiting several expert reports, which will inform the sentencing phase of the case.
Currently, Berry remains in custody as he awaits a pre-sentence hearing scheduled for April 2026. This timeline means the legal process will continue to unfold, leaving the community and those affected by this tragedy in painful anticipation.
This case shines a harsh light on issues such as driving under the influence, unlicensed driving, and hit-and-run incidents. It begs the question: are penalties and preventive measures sufficient to deter such devastating actions? What responsibility should individuals, the community, and the legal system bear in preventing similar tragedies? Do you agree with the decision to accept the guilty plea, or do you believe the case should have gone to trial for the full accounting of facts? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.
