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Bride-to-be Vanessa Sagnay killed in tragic accident

Published 2 months ago on Aug 09, 2024

Bride-to-Be Killed by Speeding Driver: Fiancé's Heartbreaking Testimony and Justice Served.

In a devastating tragedy, 28-year-old bride-to-be Vanessa Sagnay de la Bastida, known as Charlotte, was fatally struck by a speeding driver while walking hand-in-hand with her fiancé, Michael Williams, near Wandsworth Bridge in London. The speeding driver, Octavian Cadar, 39, was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving and has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The horrific incident occurred on March 16, 2022, around 10:06 PM, as Charlotte and Michael were returning home from a gym session. Cadar, who was driving at approximately 55 mph—more than double the 20 mph speed limit—mowed down the couple, causing Charlotte to be thrown into the air and crash onto a railing and signpost. Despite the efforts of an off-duty doctor who attempted to save her, Charlotte suffered fatal head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Tragic Loss and Heartbreaking Testimony

Michael Williams, who was planning their wedding at the time of the accident, gave a heart-wrenching testimony in court. He recounted the nightmare of losing Charlotte and how he had to read his wedding vows at her funeral because she never had the chance to hear them. "What was my worst nightmare is now my reality. At least in my nightmares, I am with Charlotte again," Michael said through tears.

In his emotional victim impact statement, Michael described Charlotte as his best friend and soulmate, expressing the profound emptiness he feels without her. "Charlotte was half of me. I am less than a person without her," he said. Michael also criticized Cadar for valuing speed over human lives, stating, "No one should have the power to kill just to drive faster."

Charlotte was not just a beloved partner but also a dedicated professional. She held a degree in psychology from the University of St Andrews and a master's degree from King's College London. She was on the verge of pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology. Her mother, Jeanne Sagnay, paid tribute to her daughter, describing the loss as an atomic bomb that left the family devastated and struggling to cope.

The Fatal Crash

On the night of the accident, Cadar was speeding towards his girlfriend's house after visiting a McDonald's drive-thru. As the couple attempted to cross Bridgend Road, they checked to ensure it was safe. Michael described hearing a loud revving sound and witnessing the car approaching at an alarming speed. In a panic, he managed to reach the central reservation, but Charlotte, who was trying to retreat to the pavement, was struck by the vehicle.

Michael recounted the terrifying moment when he realized he was no longer holding Charlotte's hand and saw her lying on the pavement, seriously injured. Cadar, who initially accused the couple of "messing around in the road," later admitted his actions were the cause of the accident.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

During the trial, it was revealed that Cadar had a prior conviction for speeding in 2018, which resulted in a fine and six penalty points on his license. Judge Dhir sentenced Cadar to 10 years in prison and imposed an additional ban on driving for 10 years and eight months. He must also pass an advanced driving test before he can regain his driving privileges.

Judge Dhir emphasized the gravity of Cadar's actions and the impact on the victims' families. Michael, still grappling with the trauma of losing Charlotte, now faces the difficult journey of moving forward without her. The court's decision aimed to provide some measure of justice for the tragic loss of a young life cut short.

The case highlights the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the profound impact it can have on the lives of those left behind. As the legal proceedings conclude, the memory of Vanessa Sagnay de la Bastida will endure in the hearts of her loved ones, who continue to mourn her untimely and heartbreaking loss.

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