Norton Sowerby Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter in Fatal Railway Crossing Crash

Hamilton, New Zealand — Norton Sowerby has pleaded guilty to three counts of manslaughter, as well as charges of reckless driving causing injury and driving while disqualified, following a deadly railway crossing crash in November 2024. The incident occurred on Peachgrove Rd in Hamilton, where three men—William Chaney Marsters Brown, 46, Shylin Huirama-Osbourne, 26, and Sione Leapulu Nusipepa, 23—were killed when Sowerby drove through a railway crossing barrier that was already in place, leading to a collision with a train.

According to court documents, the railway crossing lights were flashing, and the barrier arms were down when Sowerby drove around another vehicle that had stopped at the crossing. Sowerby and his front passenger were seriously injured in the crash, while the three victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Sowerby, who had previously faced charges of reckless driving causing death, had his charges upgraded to manslaughter by the Crown last month. Through his lawyer, Shelley Gilbert, he entered guilty pleas to all charges in the High Court in Hamilton today. Sowerby, who was flanked by supporters in court, was remanded in custody and is set to be sentenced in December.

The families of the victims, who attended the court hearing, expressed deep frustration and anger over the prolonged legal process and the lack of accountability from Sowerby. Brown’s aunt, Moana Marsters, stated that the family had traveled from Auckland for each of Sowerby’s five court appearances and were devastated that it took so long for him to admit guilt.

“We want him held accountable for his actions. Whatever he gets, to me, is not enough. Three lives are irreplaceable,” Marsters said, emphasizing that no sentence would bring back her nephew and his friends. Shylin Huirama-Osbourne’s brother, Wiremu Te Whare, echoed these sentiments, stating that there would be no relief until Sowerby was jailed for a significant period.

Sione Nusipepa’s partner, Natalia Taoho, also expressed frustration over the delay in Sowerby’s plea. She noted that Sowerby had the opportunity to spend Christmas and New Year with his family while the victims’ families mourned their loss.

The case has drawn widespread attention, with many questioning the legal process and the time it took for Sowerby to accept responsibility. As the sentencing date approaches, the families continue to demand justice, hoping for the maximum penalty available under the law.

This tragic event has reignited discussions about road safety and the consequences of reckless driving at railway crossings. Advocates for victims’ families are calling for stronger legal measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.