Perth Woman Jailed for 16 Months in Hit-and-Run of 12-Year-Old Schoolgirl
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A 52-year-old woman has been sentenced to 16 months in jail for a hit-and-run incident that left a 12-year-old girl with serious injuries. The case, which unfolded in the southern Perth suburb of Willetton, highlights the critical importance of driver responsibility and the devastating consequences of failing to render assistance after an accident.
Tahira Shaheen was found to be driving without a full license, unsupervised, and not displaying L plates when she struck Alexis Lloyd at a pedestrian crossing in June 2023. Judge Laura Christian described Shaheen’s actions as “callous,” particularly her failure to check on the schoolgirl’s well-being after the collision.
Schoolgirl Struck in School Zone
The incident occurred as Alexis Lloyd, a student at Willetton Senior High, was walking to school. A crossing guard had already begun to walk across the road, signaling pedestrians to proceed, when Shaheen’s hatchback struck Alexis on the left side. The impact resulted in a broken leg and collarbone, requiring weeks of treatment and the use of a wheelchair.
Following an extensive investigation, police charged Shaheen in August with failing to stop and render assistance, as well as failing to report the incident. Initially, Shaheen claimed she “panicked” and was “embarrassed” and therefore did not report the accident. However, she subsequently provided conflicting accounts, including telling her husband she was unaware of how the damage to her vehicle occurred and, in another version, claiming to have struck a large musical instrument.
Conflicting Accounts and Parole Eligibility
Judge Christian ultimately rejected Shaheen’s explanations, noting she had “concocted multiple stories” to explain her actions. Shaheen will be eligible for parole after serving at least eight months of her 16-month sentence.
The court also heard details regarding Shaheen’s personal circumstances. Defense lawyer Shash Nigam characterized the defendant as being “entirely dependent on her husband” and “protected” from facing real-world challenges, describing her as part of a specific cultural group. He further stated that Shaheen had been actively encouraging younger women within her community to pursue independence. Notably, the court learned that Shaheen had obtained her driver’s license since the incident.
Victim’s Family Welcomes Sentence
Outside the court, Alexis Lloyd’s mother, Tory Carter, expressed relief at the sentencing. “Today’s sentencing has brought justice finally for the callous hit and run,” Carter stated. “We’re relieved that the court today finally recognised the seriousness of this crime.”
Carter emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “We hope the outcome sends a strong message that leaving the scene of a crime and failing to take responsibility is unacceptable.” While Alexis is recovering well, Carter acknowledged the lasting mental scars the incident has left on her daughter. She also expressed shock that Shaheen had obtained a driver’s license following the collision.
Judge Christian acknowledged Shaheen’s struggles with depression and anxiety but dismissed evidence suggesting an intellectual disability. The case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and moral obligations drivers have to ensure the safety of pedestrians and to take responsibility for their actions.
