The mother of a 7-year-old boy killed in a crash in March has appeared in court this morning for a charge of careless driving causing death while under the influence of drink or drugs. 

Sangita Prasad, 47, appeared in the Dunedin District Court this morning, having been accused of causing the death of her son, O’Siah Prasad, after a crash on Owaka Valley Rd on March 23. 

Prasad’s counsel Deborah Henderson told the court further investigations were expected, and recommended the court deem Prasad not guilty. 

Prasad was remanded on bail with conditions including that she reside at a Fairfield address, not drive, and not possess illicit drugs, until August 1 for a case review hearing. 

Police allege the crash happened after Prasad had used methamphetamine before driving. 

Her car left the road, crashed through a fence, and came to rest in a ditch. 

The charge carries a maximum penalty of three years’ imprisonment or a $10,000 fine. 

O’Siah, described on a Givealittle page as a “bright, loving, and adventurous little boy,” was killed in the crash. 

A Givealittle page described O’Siah as a boy who loved exploring the outdoors. Photo / Supplied 

The Givealittle page set up in the days following the incident raised more than $10,000 to support the grieving family, with funds going toward a headstone and general support. 

According to the page, the money would be managed by Prasad’s eldest daughter. 

“During this heartbreaking time, we are reaching out for support to help O’Siah’s family (including his mum Sangita),” the fundraising post said. 

“No parent should have to face this pain alone.” 

O’Siah was remembered as a child who “filled every room with joy” and “loved exploring the outdoors, making memories with his family, and sharing his beautiful smile with everyone around him”. 

Ben Tomsett is a multimedia journalist based in Dunedin. He joined the Herald in 2023.