Guilty plea after woman killed in 140mph car crash

Evan Forde, 32, pleaded guilty to causing the death of Maria Carolina Do Nascimento, 22, in a high-speed crash in Brent Cross, north London, on Christmas Day 2022. Forde drove a black Mercedes at speeds exceeding 140mph before colliding with a BMW, resulting in Nascimento's death at the scene. Prosecutor Frederick Hookway noted that the speed variations would not impact the case due to the defendant's extreme velocity. Judge Anthony Leonard KC adjourned sentencing until October 22, warning Forde that imprisonment is likely. The crash occurred on a 40mph stretch of road, and police had attempted to stop Forde shortly before the collision but did not pursue him.

Forde and his passengers fled the scene on foot, prompting an investigation by the police. The Metropolitan Police referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, as is routine in such cases. This tragic event highlights the dangers of reckless driving and raises questions about police protocols in high-speed situations.