An evening family walk turned into a devastating tragedy in Sydney when Samanvitha Dhareshwar, an eight-month pregnant Indian woman, was killed after a high-speed crash on Friday night. The 33-year-old was only weeks away from delivering her second child.
Evening Walk Turns Fatal
Dhareshwar had stepped out with her husband and three-year-old son near George Street in Hornsby around 8 pm. According to police, a Kia Carnival had slowed down to allow the family to cross a footpath when a speeding BMW slammed into its rear.
The impact pushed the Kia forward, hitting Dhareshwar as she crossed the entrance of a car park.
Emergency services rushed her to Westmead Hospital, but despite immediate medical efforts, doctors were unable to save her or her unborn child.
Victim Was an Experienced IT Analyst
Dhareshwar’s LinkedIn profile reveals she was an experienced IT systems analyst with a specialisation in business application administration and support. She worked as a test analyst at Alsco Uniforms, and was well-respected in her professional circle.
Teenager Behind the Wheel Arrested
Police identified the BMW driver as 19-year-old Aaron Papazoglu, a P-plate driver. While he escaped injury, he was arrested later at his home in Wahroonga.
He now faces several serious charges, including:
- Dangerous driving occasioning death
- Negligent driving occasioning death
- Causing the loss of a foetus
A magistrate denied him bail, citing the severity of the case and the consequences of his alleged actions.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the victim’s husband or young son suffered any injuries.
Case to Proceed Under Zoe’s Law
The case is expected to advance under Zoe’s Law, a New South Wales legislation introduced in 2022. The law allows courts to impose harsher penalties when an unborn child is killed as a result of criminal negligence or dangerous driving.
If convicted, Papazoglu could face up to three additional years in prison under this provision.
Community Shocked by the Loss
The heartbreaking incident has left the Indian community in Sydney grieving. Messages of support have been pouring in for the family, who had been preparing to welcome a new baby into their lives.