The two motorists on trial for killing Kingston University student Hina Shamim by dangerous driving were “racing” at twice the speed limit before the collision took place, a court heard on Thursday.
Farid Reza, 36, of Kingston, stands accused of hitting Miss Shamim at twice the speed limit in front of Penrhyn Road campus whilst “racing” the other defendant, William Spicer, 27, a CCTV analysis confirmed.
The two defendants appeared at The Old Bailey to hear evidence presented by the prosecution.
Prosecuting lawyer Deanna Heer said: “Reza reached speeds of approximately 63mph leading up to the crash, and continued to reach up to 69mph after”.
Heer presented findings from CCTV 150 metres from Penrhyn Road which showed the men’s cars, and used time and distance to estimate Reza’s speed.
William Spicer was likely to face a less serious sentence, and appeared composed throughout the hearing.
Spicer, who was driving a dark grey BMW, were “racing” and “showing off” in the moments leading up to the collision, Heer said at the first hearing, reported by the Surrey Comet.
While some of the evidence was presented, Reza covered his face with his hands.
The two defendants were also accused of severely injuring a minor; one of five passengers in Reza’s white BMW, the court heard.
Both defendants continued to deny the charges and did not take the stand on Thursday.
Reza had previously expressed “shock” and “great concern” in court, claiming Miss Shamim had “just stepped out” onto the road.
Miss Shamim was in her final year of Sport Science at Kingston University, and had been on her way to use the library at Penrhyn Road campus when she was hit by a speeding BMW.
A decision is expected to be reached by the jury towards the end of next week.
The case continues.
Balsam Maki
Dharmi Dave
Alex Bennett