The bustling nightlife in Fortitude Valley was shattered on Friday evening as a driver, suspected to be under the influence of heroin, wreaked havoc on the streets, ultimately injuring a pedestrian.
Shortly after he allegedly fled the collision scene, police caught Samuel Thomas Patterson in Bowen Hills. Eyewitnesses recounted a harrowing scene, with Patterson seen driving erratically on the wrong side of Brunswick Street, narrowly missing numerous pedestrians. His vehicle eventually mounted the footpath, striking a bus stop pole, which fell onto a bystander, injuring their ankle.
Outraged witnesses retaliated, pelting Patterson’s car with objects and shattering his rear window. Despite the commotion, he allegedly continued to drive, leaving the injured pedestrian behind. The police swiftly intervened, taking him into custody.
In court on Saturday, Patterson’s lawyer argued for bail, citing his client’s struggles with heroin addiction and recent attempts to turn his life around. However, Magistrate Michael Gerard O’Driscoll denied bail, citing concerns for public safety.
The incident has sparked community outrage and calls for stricter measures to address drug-impaired driving. Patterson faces a litany of charges, including the dangerous operation of a vehicle, failing to remain at the scene of an incident, and three drug-related offences. His case has been adjourned until the 24th of June.
Published Date 05-June-2024
