SHOCKING photos show a scaffolding sheet hanging precariously from a lorry before it smashed through a car windscreen and killed a boy.
Russell Le Beau failed to secure the metal board on the rear of his van as he drove on the B2095 in Hooe, East Sussex.
One that was left suspended in mid-air at an angle across the carriageway then smashed into Lee Dennis’ windscreen as he drove in the opposite direction.
His 11-year-old son Harry was killed in the horror, with horrific pictures showing where the metal sliced the glass on the car.
Le Beau, 34, has now been jailed for four years after he admitted causing death by dangerous driving.
Lewes Crown Court heard the scaffolder failed to secure the boards to his Ford Transit flatbed van properly.
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Instead of using ratchet straps, net or tarpaulin, he made do with one metal pole at the end of the lorry.
As a result, the killer board was able to swing out on to the carriageway and into the car Harry was travelling in on December 15, 2022.
The footballer, who played for Hastings Athletic, was airlifted to Kings College Hospital in London but died days later from his injuries.
Sentencing, Judge Christine Laing KC told Le Beau: “You were driving whilst that vehicle was dangerous.
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“I have no doubt that you were prepared to take a risk whatever the rush was that day.
“But you set off with catastrophic consequences. You were at the wheel and bear the responsibility for not checking.
“I accept that you didn’t intend to cause harm, but you took a most gross risk by driving with an insecure load.”
As well as a prison term, Le Beau was disqualified from driving for seven years.
Speaking after the case, Harry’s mother Maria said: “Harry was our beautiful son with the biggest of smiles and the biggest of hearts.
“His kind, caring and fun nature made such an impact on so many. He would take others under his wing, helping his friends to grow in confidence and to believe in themselves.
“If Harry could make someone laugh it would make his day. His giggle was infectious and memories of we share memories of his antics daily. His smile lives on in us- his family, and his friends.”
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Holly Christodoulou
