A Vermont father, Darel Galorenzo, has been sentenced to nine to 15 years in state prison for the manslaughter of his 2-year-old son, who drowned after the defendant fled from a vehicle crash. Galorenzo pleaded guilty to manslaughter and two counts of operating under the influence of liquor. The tragic incident occurred on April 8, 2023, in Massachusetts, where the child fell into a stream and succumbed to drowning and hypothermia.

Massachusetts State Police responded to a car crash involving Galorenzo’s 2015 Subaru Crosstrek on Middle Road. It was reported that Galorenzo, intoxicated at the time, fled the scene on foot, leaving his son unaccounted for in the vehicle. The toddler was later found in Hudson Brook and pronounced dead at Berkshire Medical Center.

During the investigation, Galorenzo claimed his son couldn’t sleep and had been coughing, so he took him for a drive. He alleged that the crash occurred due to icy conditions, and his son ran away into the brook. However, police found Galorenzo soaking wet and intoxicated, leading to his arrest.

District Attorney Timothy Shugrue emphasized the vulnerability of children in the community and condemned Galorenzo’s actions, stating that he prioritized his own needs over the safety of his child.

Galorenzo’s sentencing exceeds the state’s guideline of three years for manslaughter, reflecting the severity of his negligence and the tragic consequences that ensued. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of protecting and prioritizing the welfare of children in our society.