A 19-year-old man has been denied bail after police alleged he ran an orange light at excessive speed, causing a crash that killed a pregnant woman in Sydney's north. Aaron Papazoglu appeared in Parramatta Bail Court via video link on Saturday, facing charges of dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving, and causing loss of a fetus.
The victim, a 33-year-old woman, was treated at the scene on George Street in Hornsby around 8pm Friday before being taken to Westmead Hospital in critical condition. She and her unborn child could not be saved.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Candice Chapman argued that Papazoglu intentionally ran a yellow light at high speed, leading to another car striking the victim. She said a custodial sentence was likely if convicted and that bail should be denied due to the seriousness of the matter and risk to community safety.
Defence lawyer Patrick Schmidt countered that there was no evidence of speeding, no alcohol or drugs involved, and no street racing. He described the incident as a tragic outcome of unfortunate events, noting his client had no criminal record and strong community ties.
Magistrate Ray Plibersek denied bail, citing the seriousness of the case, but acknowledged the lack of direct evidence for speeding. He expressed sympathy for both families affected by the tragedy. Papazoglu will next appear at Downing Centre Local Court on November 18.
