A bus driver who killed a nine-year-old girl while cycling on a pavement has had his sentence increased to six years and eight months. Martin Asolo-Ogugua, 24, was originally jailed for four years after admitting causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs.
The incident occurred on August 3 last year in Bexleyheath, south London, when Asolo-Ogugua fell asleep at the wheel with almost three times the legal limit of cannabis in his system. He collided with Ada Bicakci as she cycled to a gymnastics class with her father and brother. Ada died two days later in hospital.
The Solicitor General referred the original sentence to the Court of Appeal, arguing it was unduly lenient. Three senior judges agreed, increasing the sentence and imposing a five-year driving ban upon release. Lord Justice Dingemans stated that Asolo-Ogugua had disregarded the risk to others and must have known he was unfit to drive.
CCTV from the bus cab showed Asolo-Ogugua yawning repeatedly and appearing drowsy over 13 minutes before the crash. He then fell asleep for up to 15 seconds, causing the bus to drift across the road and hit Ada. After the collision, he made efforts to assist the victim and showed remorse.
Solicitor General Lucy Rigby welcomed the court's decision, expressing sympathies to Ada's family and condemning Asolo-Ogugua's selfishness. The driver watched the proceedings via video link from HMP Isis.
