Two brothers received prison sentences on Thursday for their roles in a fatal traffic incident. A 78-year-old cyclist died after being struck by their vehicle last year.
The younger brother, aged 24, was driving the car that hit the elderly cyclist on September 14 around 5:15 PM. The court found him guilty of involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors argued he drove with particular recklessness, but the court rejected the aggravated charge of reckless driving.
His 30-year-old brother was a passenger in the vehicle. Both men were convicted for failing to stop and assist the seriously injured cyclist after the collision.
The younger brother received one year and nine months in prison. Six months relate directly to the fatal accident. The remaining sentence covers separate drug possession charges, where police suspect he intended to resell the substances.
The older brother received a five-month prison term. Court documents revealed the driver operated the vehicle without a valid license.
Court officials stated the driver either exceeded speed limits or failed to brake properly. Both brothers fled the scene despite knowing the cyclist was seriously injured, according to court statements.
The brothers now consider appealing their sentences. They have a two-week deadline to file an appeal.
This case highlights Denmark's strict liability laws for drivers involved in accidents. Leaving the scene of a serious collision carries automatic criminal consequences, regardless of who caused the initial incident.