Anthony Joshua’s Driver Charged After Fatal Crash
The boxing world is still reeling from a devastating holiday tragedy. On December 29, a horrific accident occurred in Sagamu, Nigeria, involving former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. Now, significant legal updates have emerged regarding the incident. Authorities have confirmed that Anthony Joshua’s driver has been officially charged with multiple offenses following the collision that claimed two lives.
Police Issue Four Major Charges
The Federal Road Safety Corps in Nigeria recently released harrowing images of the twisted Lexus Jeep involved in the crash. Inside the vehicle were five adult males, including ‘AJ’ himself, who was visiting due to his family’s roots in the area. On January 2, BBC police sources identified the driver as Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode. He has worked for Joshua for several years.
Kayode appeared before the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he faced severe accusations. Prosecutors charged him with four specific offenses:
- Causing death by dangerous driving.
- Reckless and negligent driving.
- Driving without due care.
- Driving without a valid driver’s license.
The Defense and Court Ruling
Reports indicate that Anthony Joshua’s driver pleaded not guilty to the charges. His defense team argues that the crash was not due to negligence, but rather a mechanical malfunction. They claim the vehicle’s brakes failed completely, causing the car to slam into a stationary truck.
Consequently, the court granted Kayode bail. The sum was set at 5,000,000 Naira, which is roughly $3,479.52. The case has since been adjourned, with legal proceedings scheduled to resume on January 20.
A Community in Mourning
While the legal battle begins, the emotional toll remains heavy. The crash claimed the lives of two pivotal members of Joshua’s inner circle. Road safety officials confirmed the deaths of Latif Ayodele, his personal trainer, and Sina Ghami, his strength coach.
Tributes have flooded in from across the globe. Even rivals like Tyson Fury sent condolences to the grieving families. Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua is slowly healing. Lagos commissioner Gbenga Omotoso confirmed that the star paid his respects at a funeral home after being discharged. He continues his recovery in private, mourning the loss of his close friends.