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Man admits killing mother and daughter in motorway crash after his Tesla captures key evidence

Wednesday, 19 March 2025 12:39

A man has admitted to killing a mother and daughter in a motorway crash.

Cheryl Woods, 61, and Sarha Smith, 40, of Caerphilly, died in the multi-vehicle crash on the M4 between junction 17 for Chippenham and junction 18 for Bath.

Firas Zeineddine pleaded guilty to two charges of causing death by careless driving at Swindon Crown Court over his role in the accident on 20 October 2023.

The 46-year-old, of Keynsham, near Bristol, had originally been charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving but admitted the lesser charges.

Judge Jason Taylor KC said: "The reality is that a lot of the evidence comes from the defendant's own car and the Tesla was recording from multiple cameras."

The women killed were previously described as devoted mothers and grandmothers in a tribute issued by their family.

It said: "Cheryl Woods, cherished by those in her life, fulfilled the roles of a loving mother, doting grandmother, cherished sister, and a dear friend.

"Her selflessness was a defining trait, consistently prioritising her family's well-being over her own, and she took immense pride in her Welsh heritage while nurturing a deep love for nature.

"Sarha Smith, in the footsteps of her mother, unselfishly devoted herself to her family's needs ahead of her own.

"She was not only a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, but her absence leaves a void for those who relied on her radiant presence.

"Her legacy lives on through her six daughters, who will forever hold her memory close and strive to honour her with their efforts."

Zeineddine is due to be sentenced on 28 April.

Sky News