A teenage driver has formally denied manslaughter charges after a grandmother lost her life in a catastrophic collision during a police pursuit that reached terrifying speeds of up to 130mph.
Kamil Giza, 19, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court where he entered a not guilty plea for the death of 53-year-old Sharon Garratt. The tragic incident occurred when the Mercedes Giza was driving collided with Mrs Garratt's vehicle in the Kingstanding area of Birmingham.
The Fateful Pursuit
Court proceedings revealed that West Midlands Police officers had been pursuing the Mercedes after it failed to stop. The chase reached staggering speeds of 120-130mph through residential neighbourhoods, raising serious questions about police pursuit protocols in urban areas.
Emergency services rushed to the scene of the collision on Walsall Road, but despite their best efforts, Mrs Garratt was pronounced dead at the scene. The mother and grandmother was described by devastated family members as "the heart of our family."
Multiple Charges Filed
Giza faces additional serious charges beyond the manslaughter allegation, including:
- Dangerous driving
- Driving without insurance
- Failing to provide a specimen for analysis
The prosecution service has confirmed that all charges relate to the events of October 26, 2023, when the pursuit and subsequent fatal collision occurred.
Judicial Proceedings Continue
During the recent hearing, Judge Melbourne Inman KC addressed the defendant, confirming: "You have pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and not guilty to dangerous driving."
The case has been adjourned for a three-week trial scheduled to begin on February 3, 2025. Giza has been remanded in custody until his next appearance at the same court on October 4.
This case has sparked broader discussions about police pursuit safety and the consequences of dangerous driving in residential communities across the West Midlands.
