Wiktoria Was

The mother of schoolgirl Wictoria Was, who was killed in a car crash in New Cross in January, has spoken of her “unbearable” grief.

Devon Newell, 33, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty on Monday at Woolwich Crown Court for causing death by dangerous driving. He was sentenced to eight and a half years with a further two years added for causing serious injury.

Newell was being pursued by police when he crashed into Wictoria’s family VW Polo in New Cross.

Wiktoria,13, died at the scene, but the other passengers, including her mother, stepfather and four-year-old brother, were taken to hospital with non-serious injuries.

Wiktoria’s mother, Anna Uroda said in court: “I will be tortured for the rest of my life, every day I face in darkness”.

Uroda said there were “no words to describe the hatred” she felt for Newell. In a statement read to the court, she described Wiktoria as “lovable, sensitive, trustworthy, happy, intelligent, hard working, a sensible young girl full of life, my beautiful little princess who I love beyond anything words can describe.”

Newell was also sentenced for failing to stop at the scene of an accident, driving with no insurance and driving with no licence. Along with the prison sentence, he received a six-year driving ban.

Uroda called Wiktoria “the everlasting burning flame” of her life and said: “How can I find it in my heart to forgive? The day Wiktoria’s heart stopped beating so did mine. I will always miss you Wiktoria. Sleep tight, rest in peace knowing that I love you.”

An investigation into the initial chase is being carried out by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

For previous articles, click here and here.

By Chris Dillon