Van Driver Pleads Guilty to Fatal Crash That Killed King's College Student
A man has admitted guilt in a tragic incident that claimed the life of a university student in central London. Christopher Jackson, aged 27 and from Southampton, appeared at the Old Bailey and entered a guilty plea to charges of causing death by dangerous driving, along with two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Details of the Incident and Court Proceedings
The fatal crash occurred on March 18 last year on the Strand, where Aalia Mahomed, a 20-year-old student at King's College London, was sitting on a bench during her lunch break. She died at the scene. During the hearing, Jackson admitted the charges with his head bowed, looking towards the floor for most of the proceedings.
Prosecutor Fiona Robertson informed the court that Ms Mahomed's family, as well as the two surviving victims, are anxious for Jackson to be sentenced before the anniversary of the incident. Judge Philip Katz KC indicated that a substantial custodial sentence is inevitable.
Defence Arguments and Personal Circumstances
Defending barrister Jessica Clarke highlighted that this case differs from many others involving death by dangerous driving, as it did not involve excessive speed, alcohol, or drugs. She described it as a tragic accident. Clarke also revealed that Jackson has three young children with his fiancée and has been attempting to earn as much money as possible for his family ahead of the sentencing.
Ms Mahomed was remembered by her family as a bright, kind, and beautiful soul. She was in her second year of a physics and philosophy degree at King's College London, according to the university's website.
Witness Accounts and Additional Injuries
Previously, the court heard that Jackson's van collided with a metal gate, knocking it off its hinges, before striking the bench where Ms Mahomed was seated. Two other individuals, Irem Yoldas and Yamin Belmessous, were injured in the incident.
A politics student who witnessed the crash described the chaotic scene, noting that she and her friends had moved from the bench moments before the van hit. She recounted seeing a hysterical woman and three injured people on the ground, with one victim still breathing. The witness added that the driver got out to help the injured, appearing frantic and expressing disbelief over what had happened.
Jackson has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced at the same court on March 6.
