'I've never prayed so hard' — man whose car hit family

A 60-year-old driver who was in a head-on collision with a family of five told a court he had “never prayed so much in my life” for the victims.

David Correia was driving on Middle Road in Southampton at 11:19am on August 3 heading east when he swerved into the westbound lane.

Correia hit a car carrying five people, including gospel singer Duawne Starling, his wife Carmen and their three daughters, aged eight, six and five.

Addressing the court on Tuesday, the defendant said: “I would like to say I’m sorry for wasting the court’s time. I hurt these people and I’m very sorry.

“I have never prayed so much in my life for these people.”

Crown counsel Cindy Clarke told the court both cars received extensive damages as a result of the collision.

Correia and the Starling family were injured in the crash with Correia complaining of chest pain. There were no signs of impairment from the defendant.

The court heard Mrs Starling suffered lacerations, bruises, fractured ribs and a fractured foot. Mr Starling also suffered bruising and rib fractures.

One of the daughters suffered a fractured wrist, lacerations to her leg and a cut to the mouth.

Correia and the Starlings were taken to hospital after the crash.

The court heard the road was dry at the time of the collision.

Inspector Philip Lewis, head of roads policing, concluded Correia fell asleep at the wheel while driving, thus causing the accident.

Correia’s vehicle was determined to not be defective at the time of the crash.

Correia pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm to Mr Starling, Mrs Starling and one of their daughters by driving a motor vehicle without due care and attention.

He was sentenced on Wednesday to a $3,000 fine for each count and a two-year driving ban of all vehicles.

Mr Starling is a well-known American inspiration/gospel singer who has performed in Bermuda numerous times. His wife is Bermudian. 

We understand Correia's car was insured with Colonial at the time of the accident.