A warrant has been issued for an Italian man accused of causing the death of five people, including his own son, in a crash in Scotland.
Five passengers were killed in the crash which involved a minibus and a car on the A96 between Huntly and Keith in the north-east on July 26, 2018.
Alfredo Ciociola, 47, who was behind the wheel of the minibus, is accused of driving dangerously, falling asleep, repeatedly braking, driving on to the opposite carriageway and colliding with the car.
The Sicilian, who is on bail, was due to appear at Aberdeen High Court on Monday, August 23 but did not turn up.
Now a warrant has been issued for his arrest.
Audrey Appleby, 70, Edward Reid, 63, and Evalyn Collie, 69, who were all passengers inside the car died, as did Ciociola's four-year-old son Lorenzo and Frances Saliba, 63, who were passengers in the minibus.
Four people were also injured in the crash.
Glasgow High Court has confirmed to the Daily Record a warrant has been issued for Ciociola.
Last March Ciociola was excused attendance at a court hearing on the matter due to the coronavirus pandemic restrictions on travel.
Devastated friends and family paid heartfelt tributes to the deceased after the horrific crash.
Ted Reid’s family said: “We are heartbroken that Edward was tragically taken from us on July 26.
“Ted was a devoted husband, dad, granddad, brother and friend.
“He will be remembered for his selfless loving nature and will be sorely missed by all.”
Thanking the emergency services and members of the public who tried to help at the scene, Evalyn Collie’s family said: “We have lost a beautiful lady.”
They added: “We wish to pass on our condolences and deepest sympathy to all the families who lost family members in this horrific and tragic incident and hope those injured make a speedy and full recovery.”
