Man held in custody over fatal Loppi traffic accident

A district court in Kanta-Häme has extended the detention of a 55-year-old man suspected of aggravated manslaughter and aggravated endangerment of traffic safety following a fatal accident in Loppi on 10 July, Yle reports.

The crash occurred late on the evening of 10 July on Herajoki Road, near the border between Riihimäki and Loppi. A middle-aged woman injured in the accident later died in hospital from her injuries on 15 July. The suspect was also hospitalised after the collision.

Police allege the man was driving a van without a licence, under the influence of alcohol, and at excessive speed. He is also suspected of drunk driving and driving without a valid permit.

The man, born in 1971, denies having been behind the wheel. His defence lawyer, Matti Alasentie, confirmed to Yle that the suspect continues to deny driving the vehicle.

The court first remanded the man in custody on 17 July at the request of police, who have since gathered additional evidence. Prosecutors must file charges by 10 September. Häme police continue to investigate the case.

According to Hämeen Sanomat, the suspect has over ten prior convictions, including for aggravated drunk driving.