A man has appeared in court charged over the death of a 'bright and beautiful' Kings College London student who was killed when a van crashed into pedestrians on a busy central London street.
Court Appearance Following Fatal Incident
Christopher Jackson faced Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday, 5 January 2026. He is charged with causing the death of 20-year-old Aalia Mahomed by dangerous driving, along with two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
The tragic incident occurred on 18 March last year on the Strand. According to allegations presented in court, a van collided with a metal gate before striking a bench where Aalia was sitting.
A 'Bright and Beautiful Soul' Lost
Aalia Mahomed, described by her devastated family as a "bright, kind and beautiful soul," was pronounced dead at the scene. The second-year physics and philosophy student was a promising scholar at the prestigious King's College London, which is located near the crash site.
Her death has sent shockwaves through the university community and beyond, highlighting the dangers present on London's bustling thoroughfares.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The case marks the beginning of a legal process seeking justice for Aalia and others injured in the collision. The charges indicate that multiple people were seriously hurt in the incident alongside the fatal outcome.
As this is a breaking news story, further developments are expected as the case progresses through the judicial system. The Metropolitan Police investigation into the precise circumstances of the crash continues.
The next steps in the court process will determine how the case proceeds, potentially to a higher court for trial.
