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4 months ago
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A Mercedes driver who ran over and killed the daughter of an Ecuadorian politician has appeared in court today ahead of his trial.
Octavian Cadar, 39, hit Vanessa Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida with his car as she crossed London's Wandsworth Bridge just before 10pm on March 16, 2022.
An air ambulance flew to the scene on Bridgend Road, in Wandsworth, but nothing could be done to save the 27-year-old, who was the daughter of Ecuadorian politician Carlos Sagnay de la Bastida.
Cadar denies causing death by dangerous driving but admits the lesser offence of causing death by careless driving.
He appeared at the Old Bailey today for a brief hearing ahead of his trial on July 29, with members of Charlotte's family also in attendance.
Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida, who was the daughter of Ecuadorian politician Carlos Sagnay de la Bastida (pictured together), died after being hit by a car in 2022
The 27-year-old was hit by a Mercedes while crossing the road just before 10pm on March 16 2022. She later died at the scene
Octavian Cadar, 39, denies causing the death of Charlotte by dangerous driving but admits the lesser offence of causing death by careless driving
Charlotte, who was engaged to her partner Michael Williams, studied psychology at the University of St Andrews and graduated with a master's degree from King's College London.
She was employed by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust as a research assistant within their Department of Psychology.
Following the tragedy, Charlotte's closest friend Kristina Smirnoffa wrote: 'It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida at the young age of twenty-seven.
'Charlotte was everything, a loving fiancé to Michael, a caring friend, a kind daughter, a hard worker, a fantastic cheerleader.
'Charlotte was the main character in most of our lives. Charlotte lit up every room she walked into.
'She was a true princess and a fighter.
'She was beautiful inside and out…for the way she thought…for the way her eyes sparkled…for the way she lifted others up around her.
Charlotte (pictured) studied psychology at the University of St Andrews and graduated with a master's degree from King's College London
Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida is pictured with her fiancé Michael Williams
Octavian Cadar, who denies a charge of causing death by dangerous driving, is seen leaving Wimbledon Magistrates' Court
'She was taken from us so soon, so suddenly, without a goodbye. Charlotte will be missed dearly.'
At the time Detective Constable Jenny Burr, who led the initial investigation, said: 'Wandsworth Bridge is a popular and busy route across the Thames and it is likely that people either witnessed the collision, or may have dash-cam footage that could assist our investigation.
'I am appealing to those people to get in touch. Our thoughts are with her family.'
Cadar, of Clydesdale Way, Belvedere, southeast London, remains on unconditional bail. He will next appear for a hearing on 17 July.
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