Officers deny causing death of pregnant woman in Eltham crash

PC Chris Johnson has denied causing the death of Marian Ahmed by dangerous driving. Ms Ahmed, who was 39-weeks pregnant, died after her Volkswagen Polo was involved in a collision on Eltham Road on October 17, 2024. Her unborn child also could not be saved. PC Johnson, 56, entered his plea at the Old Bailey on September 18. Former officer Danny Tomkins, 35, also appeared in court and denied a charge of dangerous driving.

Allegations in court

The court heard that both officers were on duty and driving separate vehicles as part of a pre-planned deployment. Prosecutors stated that they were travelling at speeds exceeding 70mph in a 30mph zone and overtook traffic on the wrong side of the road for approximately 130 metres. PC Johnson, who was driving the vehicle that collided with Ms Ahmed's car, was allegedly travelling at around 50mph at the point of impact. Mr Tomkins, whose vehicle was not involved in the crash, is accused of overtaking Ms Ahmed's car at 78mph shortly before the incident. Ms Ahmed had indicated she intended to turn off before the collision occurred, according to the prosecution.

Investigation and trial date

The charges follow an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct after a mandatory referral from the Metropolitan Police. PC Johnson is attached to the Met's Taskforce, while Mr Tomkins was part of the same unit before leaving the force. A trial date for the case has been set for June 7, 2027.