Brent Parent was found guilty on three of the five charges against him in the March 2008 hit-and-run death of Silas O’Brien.
B.C. Supreme Court judge Terence Schultes convicted the 42-year-old Langley resident of criminal negligence causing death, dangerous driving, and failing to remain at the scene of an accident.
One count of dangerous driving causing death was stayed and Parent was acquitted of a second count of leaving the scene of an accident.
O’Brien, 21, was struck by a vehicle at around 2 a.m. on 16th Avenue in Langley. O’Brien’s friends testified their truck was pushed off into a ditch by a Ford pickup truck, which came back and ran down O’Brien.
Parent had testified he didn’t know he had hit anyone until he saw the news the next day.
Outside the courthouse, O’Brien’s parents expressed their relief with the judge’s decision.
“It’s done,” Silas’ mother Michelle said.
Father Rodger thanked the Crown, integrated homicide investigation team investigators, and the judge.
“It’s the only way it could have gone,” he added.
Defence lawyer Vincent Michaels said Parent was “shocked and disappointed,” but they will be reviewing the transcript and evidence to examine their options.
Parent will remain out on bail, but the judge ordered him to stay in the province and surrender his passport.
His sentencing hearing is set for April 27.
Local news from metronews.ca/vancouver
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