Ex-AFL Player Sentenced to 8.5 Years for Fatal Crash

UPDATE: A former AFL player, Shannon John Cox, has been sentenced to at least eight-and-a-half years in prison for the tragic deaths of two elderly women caused by a car crash while he was under the influence of drugs. The incident occurred on June 7, 2024, about 170 km north of Perth, when Cox fell asleep at the wheel, crossing into oncoming traffic.

During the devastating crash, Thelma Clausen and Coral Seinor, both in their 80s and en route to a Country Women’s Association event, suffered severe injuries and died at the scene. Cox, who played 25 AFL games for Collingwood from 2007 to 2009, had a methamphetamine level of 0.77 mg/L in his system and was reportedly fatigued, according to a statement from the Western Australia Supreme Court.

Cox’s Toyota Prado collided with a Suzuki Ignis after striking the side of a truck on the Brand Highway, traveling at approximately 84 km/h in wet conditions. At the time, he was transporting his 12-year-old daughter, Josephine, who also sustained injuries. They were returning to Perth to pick up his wife after her release from custody.

The court delivered a sentence of 10 years and 6 months, with Cox eligible for parole after serving eight years and six months, backdated to October 25, 2024. In addition, he will face a four-year driving disqualification upon his release. The court revealed that Cox’s struggles with substance abuse began at age 13, escalating significantly after he left professional football.

Justice Stephen Lemonis emphasized the devastating impact of Cox’s actions, stating, “The impact of your offending has been devastating.” He noted the sequence of events leading to the crash, highlighting that Cox was on a community-based order for prior drug-related offenses and had been caught driving under the influence multiple times.

Family members of the victims expressed deep grief during the proceedings. Leanne Clausen described her mother as “the most selfless, kind-hearted and community-driven person,” while Suzanne Seinor poignantly addressed Cox, saying, “Your choice resulted in taking two lives that weren’t yours to take.”

This tragic case not only underscores the severe consequences of drug use and impaired driving but also highlights the far-reaching effects on families and communities. The loss of Ms. Clausen and Ms. Seinor has left a profound void in their loved ones’ lives, impacting over a thousand people connected to them.

As the community processes this heart-wrenching incident, attention will turn toward the ongoing discussions about road safety and the dangers of driving under the influence. Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and responsible, emphasizing that choices made behind the wheel can have catastrophic consequences.

Stay tuned as this story develops, and learn more about the ongoing conversations surrounding road safety and substance abuse in our communities.