William Goosman outside court minutes after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Ian Holmes

guilty plea

VIDEO: Driver in fatal Gabriola Island crash pleads guilty

Nov 30, 2020 | 12:55 PM

NANAMO — A man charged with dangerous driving causing death has changed his plea to guilty for hitting a popular Gabriola man, cancelling a BC Supreme Court trial.

William Sydney Goosman originally pleaded not guilty in connection to the death of Jay Dearman, 58, who was hit the morning of Jan. 24, 2018.

He changed his plea on Monday, Nov. 30, which was to be the first day of his trial.

Goosman, 48, will be sentenced some time in the new year after a pre sentence report is compiled, which will include his addictions issues.

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Crown prosecutors claim Goosman crossed both lanes of Berry Point Rd. in his van and hit Dearman who was jogging with his wife and friends on the shoulder of the road.

Dearman, who was a beloved member of the Gabriola Volunteer Fire Dept., was pronounced dead in hospital.

Defence lawyer Michael Ritzker said Goosman had struggled with the tragedy and his responsibility.

“He’s showing remorse, he’s showing accountability. I for one can say that it’s a benefit to the community to save members of the community from having to come to court and endure the process that has resulted in this finding.”

Justice Weatherill told Goosman he’s expected to stay on Gabriola Island prior to his sentencing hearing.

A masked Goosman, dressed in a dark hoodie and cargo pants, briefly addressed reporters prior to entering court.

“Obviously I feel horrible for what happened. Its been difficult, its changed my life completely. My feelings are basically that everything I do from this point forward matters. I need to do better,” Goosman said.

There was uncertainty whether Goosman’s matter would be heard by the court Monday after he presented signs of illness to sheriffs at the front door.

Goosman did not attend a mandated pre trial conference on Friday, Nov. 27, which Goosman said was illness related.

The maximum penalty for dangerous driving causing death under the Criminal Code of Canada is 14 years in prison.

ian@nanaimonewsnow.com
On Twitter: @reporterholmes