The family of Daniel McNamara, a former Cessnock resident tragically killed in a crash involving a stolen vehicle driven by repeat youth offenders, has launched a GoFundMe and petition campaign calling for tougher sentencing laws in NSW.
Daniel was travelling to Tamworth on 28 January 2025, obeying the road rules, when a stolen ute being driven recklessly by youth offenders slammed into his car. The offenders, described as repeat offenders, allegedly showed no remorse and fled the scene.
His grieving family is now lobbying for change. Daniel’s sister said, “We have been lobbying hard to highlight that the current youth offenders’ laws aren’t good enough for the community.” She has secured a meeting with NSW Premier Chris Minns this Friday, 11 April, where she intends to present the petition calling for stronger sentencing and bail laws.
“Magistrates are releasing repeat offenders on bail, and this no punishment approach teaches them there are no consequences for their actions,” she said. “We can’t have another tragedy like this.”
Supporters are urged to sign the petition and share it widely to help push for meaningful reform.
Sign the petition here:
change.org/justice4dan
MHV News will continue to follow this story and the community’s push for change.
