Justice Shane Parker of the Calgary Court of King's Bench sentenced Kane Anignostis Burrows, 20, to five years in prison on Thursday for killing his best friend in a drunk driving crash and then driving impaired again months later.
Fatal Crash on Glenmore Trail
On December 23, 2024, Burrows, then 19, was driving a 2018 BMW M240i eastbound on Glenmore Trail S.W. when he struck a parked crane, killing his passenger, Zachary Legault. The crash occurred after a night of reckless driving.
Parker condemned Burrows' use of the word "accident," calling it offensive. "While the booze is the gunpowder priming his impulsive, reckless decisions, it's him behind the wheel. Behind the wheel drunk is a bullet to the head of anyone near a roadway," the judge said.
Prior Driving Record and Subsequent Offence
Crown prosecutor Kay De Boer noted that Burrows was already under a driving suspension at the time of the fatal crash. In March and September 2024, he received fines for failing to obey traffic control devices. In May 2024, he was convicted of careless driving, resulting in a one-month suspension. In October 2024, he received an Immediate Roadside Sanction for impaired driving after refusing a breathalyzer, leading to a 15-month suspension.
"It was only two months after being in an IRS fail (suspension) that the accident occurred," De Boer said. She also highlighted that Burrows was still under the same suspension when he fled police nine months later, in August 2025, resulting in another massive crash.
Defence Argument and Psychological Insight
Defence counsel Alain Hepner sought a four-year sentence, arguing Burrows has learned his lesson. "He admits he's an alcoholic," Hepner said, noting Burrows started drinking at 13 and by age 14 or 15 was waking up in the middle of the night to take shots. "Alcohol's his demon," the lawyer added.
A psychological report by Dr. Patrick Baillie indicated Burrows has insight into his addiction. Hepner emphasized that Burrows has taken steps to address his alcoholism.
Sentencing and Judge's Remarks
Justice Parker acknowledged Burrows' efforts but stressed the severity of his actions. "Never take a sip again," Parker told Burrows. "You're getting there. You now know and accept you can't ever have one drink."
The Crown argued for a total sentence of 5½ years, considering Burrows' driving record and the repeat offence. De Boer said Burrows should not receive significant credit for having no prior criminal record, as "this type of offence is ordinarily committed by law-abiding citizens."
