Motorist to plead guilty after woman dies in house collision

A 20-year-old motorist will plead guilty to traffic homicide after a 64-year-old woman died when his car crashed into a detached house in Tilst, DR reported, citing Ritzau. His defence lawyer, Mette Grith Stage, confirmed the plan.

The case will be decided on the basis of his admission in court on 7 October.

The crash happened shortly before midnight on 23 June, when police tried to stop the driver. He allegedly continued at high speed and crashed into the house, killing the woman as she slept.

According to the original charges, the car was travelling at up to 109 kilometres per hour in an area with a speed limit of 50 kilometres per hour. Police had been called because of reports of reckless driving, but the 20-year-old did not stop.

It has previously emerged that passengers shouted at him to stop. The driver has said he does not remember this.

Traffic homicide is a relatively new offence in Denmark. It covers cases in which someone dies in connection with, for example, particularly reckless driving. The provision took effect in February, with lawmakers seeking tougher punishment for the most serious fatal traffic offences. Sentences are to be increased by 33 per cent.

A case decided on the basis of a guilty plea does not require witnesses to testify or extensive evidence to be presented.