Murder charge after car hits pedestrians in Willesden, killing father
Murder charge after fatal Willesden car collision

A man has been charged with murder following a fatal incident in which a car struck pedestrians in north west London, resulting in the death of a 34-year-old father.

Charges upgraded in fatal Willesden collision

Shakaine Dwyer, 29, of Willesden, has been charged with the murder of Ruben Nunes from Peterborough, the Metropolitan Police confirmed on New Year's Eve. The charge represents a significant escalation in the case.

Mr Dwyer was originally charged with causing death by dangerous driving on 7 December. However, following further investigation, the charge was upgraded to murder on Monday, 30 December 2025.

The tragic incident occurred on 3 December at Chapel Close in Willesden. Police were called to reports of a collision between a car and pedestrians. Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service, but Mr Nunes was pronounced dead at the scene.

Second man charged in connection with investigation

The investigation has also led to charges against a second individual. Gregory Ejiofor, 31, of Milton Keynes, appeared in custody on 9 December. He faces a charge of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

In a further development earlier this month, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that a 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Shakaine Dwyer is scheduled to appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on 19 January to face the murder charge.

Tribute to a 'truly blessed soul'

In a heartfelt tribute, the family of Ruben Nunes described him as a devoted family man. "Ruben was a family man - a son, a brother, an uncle, a father and a partner," they said.

They added: "He was true to his friends and cherished the people around him. He loved football and was a big Liverpool fan. Ruben had a light within him - he brightened the lives of everyone he touched. He was deeply loved by all who knew him and he will always be remembered as a truly blessed soul."

The case continues as the Metropolitan Police pursue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision in Willesden.