Woman accused of causing Harry Parker's death pleads not guilty

The 14-year-old teen died from injuries after being hit by a car outside his school, Nova Hreod Academy.

Ivy Mwangi, 52, from North Swindon was arrested shortly after the fatal crash on Akers Way on November 25, 2022. 

After over a year since the incident, she was charged with causing death by careless driving and causing death while driving without a licence and insurance. 

She appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Tuesday March 26 where she spoke only to confirm her identity and enter her plea.

Harry Parker's family and friends outside court (Image: Newsquest)

The accused, who was joined at court by several others, was dressed in black trousers and a black jacket with a white top, she had red-tinted braided hair. 

She arrived to court covered with a purple head covering and purple umbrella.

She pleaded not guilty to causing death by careless driving. 

She then made no indication of plea for the other two charges. 

Magistrates agreed that the case was too severe to fall under their jurisdiction after hearing from prosecutor Kate Prince. 

She said: “On November 25 a collision occurred between Ms Mwangi’s car and Harry Parker on his way to school, 14 years old. 

“He sadly died from his injuries.”

She explained that she felt there were mitigating circumstances that meant the case should be approached under the highest level of severity. 

“Ms Mwangi did not stop at the time, she was allegedly distracted and witnesses say there was no change in her breaking,” she said

”She also failed to stop at the scene which is a serious mitigating factor.

”She was also unlicensed and uninsured so I would suggest this falls under the highest category and should be dealt with at Crown.”

Mwangi has now been released on unconditional bail while the case has been referred to Swindon Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing. 

The hearing was delayed slightly because Harry’s parents Adam and Kelly Parker were joined by a large group of the young boy’s friends and family, who took a long time to enter the court. 

The court clerk had to delay bringing the three magistrate judges, chaired by Mr Robinson, into the courtroom while everyone was seated. 

After the hearing, a banner for the road safety campaign set up in Harry’s honour was hung on the railings outside court. 

Mwangi's plea and trial preparation hearing will take place on May 3.