Russ Wilcox
A mother from Shafesbury has admitted causing the death of her young daughter while driving drunk.
34-year-old Alanda Jane Pike pulled out of a junction into the path of a van in Blandford on Thursday 24 August 2017.
Three-year-old Louisa suffered a serious head injury and died in hospital the next day.
Police say Pike was more than three and a half times over the legal limit at the time.
She admitted causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving with excess alcohol and drugs.
The driver of the van also involved in the crash, a 44-year-old woman from Salisbury, was taken to Salisbury District Hospital for treatment to serious injuries to her hand and arm.
Police Sergeant Phil Lee, of the traffic unit, said: "Alanda Pike’s decision to drive while so intoxicated that day both through drink and drugs has resulted in truly devastating consequences, with the tragic death of her three-year-old daughter.
"This incredibly sad case yet again demonstrates the truly devastating consequences that driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol has not only for the families involved, but for the wider communities, and I hope that other motorists will remember Louisa and think again when considering getting behind the wheel if they are in any way intoxicated.
"Our sincerest thoughts are with Louisa’s friends and family at this very difficult time."
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