Trial over accident in refugee shelter - Child died - Hamburg driver faces trial for toddler's fatal accident at refugee shelter
A 35-year-old driver has gone on trial in Hamburg, accused of negligent homicide after a fatal accident at a refugee shelter in 2022. The case centres on the death of an 18-month-old toddler, who was struck by the driver's van while he was reversing. The trial opened this week, with a verdict expected by March 25.
The incident took place in 2022, when the driver allegedly failed to see the child behind his vehicle. Despite witnesses shouting warnings, the van reversed, causing severe head injuries that proved fatal. Emergency responders attempted resuscitation, but the toddler died at the scene.
Prosecutors argue that the driver could have avoided the tragedy by checking for children before moving. They claim his failure to do so directly led to the accident. The defendant's lawyer confirmed the driver would not speak publicly about the charges but revealed he has been receiving therapy and medication since the event.
During the first hearing, the child's mother gave emotional testimony as a co-plaintiff. The trial will continue over several sessions, featuring statements from additional witnesses and expert testimonies.
The court has scheduled the final ruling for March 25, following further hearings. The outcome will determine whether the driver is found guilty of negligent homicide. The case has drawn attention to safety measures around vehicles in areas with vulnerable pedestrians.
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