British backpacker jailed for drunk e-scooter crash that killed father of two in Australia
A British backpacker, Alicia Kemp, 25, from Redditch, Worcestershire, was jailed for four years in Perth, Western Australia, for dangerous driving causing death while under the influence. The crash occurred on 31 May 2025 when Kemp, who was over the legal blood alcohol limit, struck 51-year-old Thanh Phan, who subsequently died in hospital from a brain bleed. Kemp and a passenger on the e-scooter sustained minor injuries.
The sentencing, heard at Perth District Court and presided over by Judge Wendy Hughes, is backdated to June 2025 for time served. Kemp received a two-year non-parole period and could be eligible for release by mid-2027. Dangerous driving causing death carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in Western Australia.
The incident prompted Perth and several surrounding councils to suspend e-scooter hire services indefinitely. Western Australia’s e-scooter regulations require riders to be over 16, wear helmets, carry no passengers, and remain sober while riding.
Thanh Phan’s family described him as a beloved husband, father of two, and dear friend.
