A mechanic had traces of methamphetamine and cocaine in his system when he allegedly struck and killed a spectator at a motorsports event in Victoria’s south-west last year.
Bryce James Dridan, 29, of no fixed address, was granted bail today at the Supreme Court.
Dridan was allegedly driving a modified ute when he lost control and hit 18-year-old Trent Dezoete at the Loosenats competition hosted by Stawell Motor Sports Club on November 4, 2023.
The court heard the accused lost his licence on medical grounds in January and was caught drink driving in April.
On April 16, he allegedly tested positive for methamphetamine after he lost control of a Lamborghini and smashed into a home in Wendouree.
He was later arrested and refused bail at Ballarat Magistrates’ Court.
The court heard today that Dridan’s drug use escalated and his mental health began to deteriorate after his friend committed suicide five years ago.
The accused was also in a motorbike accident when a car crashed into him.
The judge noted the seriousness of the offending following the death of Dezoete, but with no criminal history, he was freed.
His mother assured the court he would work on their agriculture farm in Ballarat and would stay out of trouble.
Dridan must report to police three times a week and abstain from using drugs of dependence or illegal drugs.
The matter will return to court later this month.
