A London bus driver has been charged with drug-driving after a little girl was run over and killed last summer.
Martin Asolo-Agogua, a 23-year-old individual, faced charges recently for causing a fatality due to reckless driving under the influence of drugs and for driving while surpassing the drug limit.
Ada Bicakci died in hospital on August 5 2024, two days after she and her five-year-old brother were hit by a bus in Bexleyheath, southeast London.
Ada, who held dual British-Turkish citizenship, was swiftly transported to the hospital following the incident but unfortunately succumbed to severe injuries two days later. Her younger brother was also briefly admitted to the hospital as a precautionary measure but was ultimately released.
Detective Sergeant Sam Miles, a member of the Metropolitan Police’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, revealed in court, “While cycling on the sidewalk accompanied by her younger brother and father, Ada was tragically struck by a double-decker bus that swerved and mounted the pavement, resulting in the infliction of severe and critical injuries.”
The ‘kind-hearted’ girl had cut her long hair off to give to charity just two months before the incident. In a GoFundMe page set up in the aftermath of the accident, she was described by her parents as being their ‘little sunshine’.
Nine-year-old Ada Bicakci was killed after a double-decker bus crashed into her as she was riding her bike
Police at the scene following the serious collision in Bexleyheath, South East London
More than £14,000 was raised through a GoFundMe page created by Ada’s grieving family. The funds went to those who helped the young girl during the incident, including emergency services.
A post written by the family reads: ‘We have been hit and shattered into pieces. One became six, living in new places. Thanks are not enough to show our gratitude.
‘We’ll honour Ada with acts of magnitude. The funds will support those who helped us through, from emergency services to our hospital too. We lost count of who soaked us in love, this is the story of thanks we all owe.’
A later post thanking all who donated read: ‘There aren’t words to express our sincere gratitude to each of you.
‘We have been blown away by the generosity in support of us and those services who cared for our beautiful and kind-hearted daughter Ada.
‘We do not doubt that the bright memories of the past will illuminate the way for the future.
‘We believe it is our duty to ensure these donations truly impact those who have walked this devastating journey with us. Ada gave us this story, and you gave us this responsibility. We will of course, in time, update you on the incredible impact these heartfelt donations will have on lives and services.
‘Rest in peace, my little sunshine…’
The ‘kind-hearted’ girl had cut her long hair off to give to charity just two months before the incident
Tributes also poured in from friends and family following the tragic incident, with one writing: ‘Ada was the most wonderful girl, so bright and curious.
‘Her smile would light up the room, beaming with innocence and joy.
‘From the few times I was blessed to meet her, I was very impressed by how mature and intelligent she was, full of curiosity and loving care for her adorable little brother and others around her.
‘She had so much potential and her incredible heart was filled with compassion and a desire to help others. I’m sure she’ll continue to watch over her little brother as she has been.
‘Her heart is now beating for another child and her organs have changed the lives of others forever.
‘Her kind face will never be forgotten and her memory will live on in all of us who knew her and who will cherish her forever.’
Describing her as ‘funny’ and ‘strong’, another loved one wrote: ‘Ada was the most beautiful, funny, strong and kind best friend that I could ever wish for.
‘She will always be in my heart.’
Asolo-Agogua has been bailed and is due to attend Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 March.
