Two men have been charged in connection with a shocking incident in Kent that led to the death of an elderly pedestrian, who was struck by a car and carried on its roof for nearly a mile.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The tragic event occurred at approximately 12:10 pm on Friday, 29 December, on the A289 Gads Hill in Gillingham. An 80-year-old man was hit by a grey Mercedes estate car. In a horrifying turn of events, the pedestrian became lodged on the vehicle, which then travelled for a significant distance with the victim on top.
The man's body was subsequently discovered on Grange Road in the Medway town. This location is reported to be almost a mile, or potentially more, from the initial point of impact. The car involved was found nearby, but its two occupants had fled the scene on foot before police arrived.
Charges Brought Against Suspects
Following an investigation, Kent Police announced charges on Friday morning. Albert Matraxhiu, 28, of Orange Hill Road in Edgware, north London, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
Erald Paci, 29, of Five Way Court in Chatham, Kent, faces a charge of perverting the course of justice. The police force confirmed that both men are Albanian nationals. They have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear in court.
Ongoing Investigation and Court Proceedings
This remains a live and breaking news story, with further updates expected as the legal process unfolds. The swift charges indicate a focused police inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the pensioner's death and the actions of the suspects afterwards.
The community in Gillingham has been left shaken by the brutal nature of the incident. The case highlights the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and will now proceed through the British justice system.
