Andrew Williams says he doesn't remember many details leading up to the collision with a train that killed two of his children and injured himself and his two other children.
Williams took the stand today in the trial in Superior Court where he faces multiple charges including criminal negligence causing death and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.
He says on June 10, 2012 he loaded all four kids into his mini-van and took them to Tim Hortons, allowing his wife to sleep in.
He took Strong Rd. home, not his usual route, because there was a detour due to construction. According to his recollection they were driving along singing to the radio when suddenly he heard a noise, he turned around towards his kids and was hit by the train.
Williams insists he was not speeding and had he seen the train coming he would not have tried to beat the train with his kids in the vehicle. He says he does not recall seeing any signage to warn of the the rail crossing.
Crown Attorney Walter Costa suggested that he saw the train, and sped up to try to beat it but at the last moment slammed on the brakes afraid he wouldn't make it.
Williams called the suggestion "stupid" saying he would not put himself or his kids at risk.
Williams examination is complete, the trial is expected to last another week.
