Woman's driving charges over boy's death dropped

The case against a carer accused of causing death by dangerous driving after a teenager died has been dropped due to a lack of evidence.

Harry Parker, 14, was struck outside Nova Hreod Academy on Akers Way in Swindon, Wiltshire, on 25 November 2022 and died from his injuries.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed it will not pursue the case on Ivy Mwangi after forensic tests did not show enough evidence "to demonstrate the driving was careless".

Wiltshire Police said: "We recognise the distress that this decision will have caused to Harry’s family and we will continue to support them at this difficult time."

The other charges against Ms Mwangi - causing death by driving without a licence and causing death by driving uninsured - have also been dropped.

Tim Cole, acting deputy chief crown prosecutor with CPS Wessex, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Harry Parker for their tragic loss."

He added: “We keep every case under review to make sure that there is enough evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction.

“We examined this case in great detail – including obtaining the advice of a forensic collision expert – and it has become clear that there is not enough evidence to demonstrate that this collision could reasonably have been avoided, and therefore that the driving was careless.

“We have met with Harry’s family to explain to them our decision.”

Supt Guy Elkins said: “We recognise the distress that this decision will have caused to Harry’s family and we will continue to support them at this difficult time.

“Wiltshire Police will continue to work closely with the Parker family to ensure they are kept informed about any further developments with this case.”

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