Driver Sentenced in Deadly 2022 Raleigh Christmas Parade Accident

In November 2025, nearly three years after the tragic 2022 Raleigh Christmas Parade accident that claimed the life of 11-year-old dancer Hailey Brooks, the driver responsible has been sentenced. Landen Glass pleaded guilty to felony obstruction of justice, misdemeanor death by vehicle, and dangerous weapon at a parade charges.

Glass, who was driving the truck that struck and killed Hailey, was sentenced to a total of 262 days of incarceration and must serve 400 hours of community service upon his release. For the felony charge, he received a suspended sentence of 8 to 19 months with 36 months of supervised probation.

Hailey's family and friends were present in court, sharing the immense pain and loss they have endured over the past three years. Her grandmother, Dixie Frazier, expressed missing Hailey dearly, while her grandfather, David Frazier, described the tragedy as resulting from "ignorance, negligence, and arrogance." Hailey's mother, April Brooks, delivered a powerful victim impact statement, questioning how Glass thought it was safe to have the truck on the road near innocent children.

The Brooks family continues to advocate for tougher restrictions and inspections for vehicles in parades, to prevent such heartbreaking incidents from occurring again. Although their previous legislative efforts failed, they remain committed to Hailey's legacy and have started the Shine Like Hailey foundation in her honor.