The upcoming trial of a driver charged with causing the death of a mother in a serious crash will be moved to Salisbury. Sylwester Mielczarek, who was driving a Volkswagen Passat, was involved in a three-vehicle collision on the A30 between Sherborne and Yeovil at around 4.50pm on December 1, 2022.
30-year-old Charlotte Avis, from Milborne Port, died at the scene. Her three-year-old son was seriously injured in the crash.
Sylwester Mielczarek, a 40-year-old Yeovil resident of Horsey Lane, was taken into custody and charged with both death and serious injury caused by reckless driving. In April, before the Weymouth Magistrates’ Court, he had already entered a not guilty plea to the accusations.
Defending Mielczarek, Patrick Mason, told Bournemouth Crown Court on Thursday afternoon (May 9) that his mobility is now limited after his leg was partially amputated.
He said: “He has lost most of one of his legs and I understand he has a prosthetic leg. He will be able to travel to court in due course but allowances will have to be made.”
Due to Mielczarek’s mobility issues and difficulty in travelling, the case was moved to Salisbury Crown Court. Judge Mousley ruled Mielczarek must attend the next court hearing on Wednesday, July 3.
Judge Mousley: “You must attend the crown court in Salisbury on July 3. If you do not attend, you will be committing a separate offence, for which you can be separately punished. Until then I renew your bail.”
Mielczarek was released on unconditional bail.
Shortly after her passing, the family of Charlotte Avis previously paid tribute to their “amazing” mother of three. Over £11,000 was raised for her family through an internet fundraising.
The statement says as follows: “Charlotte Avis’ family is incredibly grateful to the public for their unwavering support in gathering donations for both her funeral and her children’s futures, as well as for their words of consolation.
“In our hearts during this difficult time, the good hearts of friends and strangers alike will always be there. Hearing about all the lives that Charlotte has impacted makes us all very pleased.
She was endearing to most everyone she came into contact with and had a great sense of humor to go along with her powerful personality.
“She had a great sense of humor and was always there to offer consolation or encouragement when needed. Her three children were her life’s purpose, and she did everything for them.
“She was a very dedicated mother who always went above and beyond to ensure that none of them went without, even after her health forced her to give up her job.
Even though her life wasn’t always easy, she always managed to gather people for a good laugh and lift everyone’s spirits.
“Once more, we are incredibly grateful to the public and law enforcement for everything they have done to assist and support our family. Hannah O’Connor deserves special recognition for organizing the fundraiser.
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