Eric Cooper sentenced to six years for Port Elliot crash that injured nine
A South Australian man who drove his vehicle into a crowd, seriously injuring nine people, has been sentenced to six years in prison. Eric Danielle Tama Wharerua Cooper, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated causing serious harm by dangerous driving and eight counts of aggravated causing harm.
The Incident
The crash occurred on October 5, 2024, outside the Royal Family Hotel in Port Elliot, South Australia. Following a confrontation, Cooper reversed his vehicle into a group of people. The impact resulted in nine serious injuries.
Alcohol Level
At the time of the incident, Cooper's blood alcohol concentration was 0.120, more than double the legal limit.
The Sentence
The District Court sentenced Cooper to six years in prison with a non-parole period of three years and ten months, backdated to his arrest.
He will be eligible for release in August 2028 and is likely to be deported afterward.