A driver accused of running over and killing a 13-year-old schoolgirl near to her north London home has denied causing death by dangerous driving.
Gardene De Carvalho, 41, was behind the wheel of a Fiat 500 when it crashed into Victoria Carson in Longmore Avenue, East Barnet, on June 29.
The teenager was rushed to hospital after the crash, at around 9.30pm, but died from her injuries that night.
De Carvalho, from Hatfield, appeared at the Old Bailey this afternoon to plead not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.
Judge Nigel Lickley QC agreed to transfer the case to Wood Green crown court where it can go to trial.
Victoria’s parents Gary and Roxanna Carson watched the court hearing over videolink, with Mrs Carson wiping away tears as the "not guilty" plea was entered.
In a statement after Victoria’s death, they said: “Our family is devastated at the loss of our beautiful daughter, who gave so much joy and delight to our lives.
“Victoria was loved dearly by so many of her friends with whom she shared many interests, especially caring for cats and playing tennis.
“We will deeply miss her smile, her laugh and her energy, but our beautiful, generous daughter will forever remain in our hearts.”
Michael Stimpson, Victoria’s headteacher at St Michael’s Catholic grammar school, paid tribute to a “vivacious and happy student”, adding: “Her loss has been the most tragic and heart-rending of events. Our school community is shaken by this incident and our hearts go out to Victoria’s family.”
De Carvalho was set free on bail until the next hearing on September 30.
