A heartbreaking incident in Sydney has led to the death of an eight-month pregnant Indian-origin woman after a car crash pushed another vehicle onto the footpath and hit her. The victim, 33-year-old Samanvitha Dhareshwar, was walking with her family when the accident unfolded in the Hornsby suburb last Friday night. Local authorities have now confirmed that the teen driver involved in the crash will seek bail.
How the Accident Happened?
The tragedy took place outside a car park on George Street in Hornsby. According to local reports, a Kia Carnival slowed down to allow Dhareshwar and her family to cross safely. At that moment, a BMW sedan driven by 19-year-old Aaron Papazoglu crashed into the Kia with a strong impact. The collision pushed the Kia forward, causing it to strike Dhareshwar on the footpath.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
Emergency services arrived shortly after 8 pm. Paramedics treated Dhareshwar at the scene and transported her to Westmead Hospital. However, the injuries proved fatal, and she died soon after. Her unborn baby could not be saved either.
The police statement described the events exactly as follows:
“NSW Ambulance paramedics attended and treated the 33-year-old female pedestrian, who was eight months pregnant, at the scene. She was taken to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition, where she and the unborn baby later died.”
Police and Officials’ Reactions
Assistant Commissioner David Driver said the crash scene was “very confronting” for first responders. Police also confirmed that neither the BMW driver nor the Kia driver was injured in the crash.
Officers conducted drug and alcohol tests, inspected both vehicles, and collected CCTV footage and witness statements.
Charges Against the BMW Driver
Papazoglu, a provisional licence holder, was arrested early Saturday morning. He faces multiple charges, including dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and causing the loss of a foetus – death of a pregnant woman. According to Australian media, he is preparing to apply for bail.
Who Was Samanvitha Dhareshwar?
Dhareshwar belonged to Karnataka and worked as an IT professional in Sydney. Her husband, Vineet, also works in the tech sector. The couple had been expecting their first child. As per indianlink.com.au, they had recently purchased land in Grantham Farm and submitted plans to build a two-storey home.
The incident has deeply shocked the Indian diaspora in Australia. Many community members expressed grief and frustration over the increasing number of speeding-related accidents in pedestrian zones.
Local Indian community groups have called for stronger enforcement of road safety rules and improved pedestrian protection near busy car parks and shopping areas.
Investigation Continues
Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash. They are examining vehicle speed, road conditions, driver behaviour, and surveillance footage. Officers are urging anyone with dashcam footage or firsthand information to assist in the investigation.
The case is expected to draw significant public attention as it moves through the courts. For now, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and ensuring accountability in this devastating loss.
