Man sentenced to almost 2 years in death of N.B. flag person

Ashley Richards is seen in this undated file photo. (Reid's Funeral Home)

A Regina man has been sentenced to two years minus a day in the death of a young New Brunswick woman who was working as a flag person in Saskatchewan.

Keith Dunford, 47, was found guilty in October of dangerous driving causing death.

Ashley Dawn Richards, 18, was struck and killed during her first day on the job near the southern Saskatchewan community of Midale in August 2012.

Court heard that Richards, who had recently moved from Lakeside, N.B., was thrown about the width of a Canadian Football League field when she was struck by the SUV.

An RCMP accident reconstructionist estimated the vehicle was travelling between 82 km/h and 99 km/h when it struck Richards. The speed limit was 60 km/h.

Dunford, who is a professional truck driver from the United Kingdom, told police he was looking at his recent immigration papers when the collision occurred.

Judge Lana Krogan said Dunford didn't modify his speed, despite seeing construction signs and observing other drivers slowing down in the construction zone.

Dunford told the court he had a momentary lapse of attention, but the judge pointed out that Dunford was driving through the construction zone for the second time that day.

Dunford was initially charged with criminal negligence causing death, but was found guilty of the lesser charge of dangerous driving causing death.

The crown was asking for three yearswhile the defence was looking for a suspended sentence and probation.

In addition to his jail sentence, Dunford is also banned from operating a vehicle for three years following his release.

With files from CTV Regina and The Canadian Press