London bus driver jailed for four years after killing nine-year-old girl on pavement
Deadly Crash in Bexleyheath
A London bus driver has been locked up for four years after the tragic death of nine-year-old Ada Bicakcim. The youngster was struck on the pavement while walking with her family in Bexleyheath last August.
Martin Asolo-Ogugua, 23, admitted causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit due to cannabis. He had partied all night before turning up to work on the morning of 3 August 2024.
Horrific Morning on Watling Street
Around 9.30am, Asolo-Ogugua’s bus mounted the pavement on Watling Street, hitting Ada and narrowly missing her five-year-old brother. Despite rushed hospital treatment, Ada tragically died two days later.
Police found cannabis in Asolo-Ogugua’s system at the scene. He was arrested and charged in February 2025.
Father’s Heartbreaking Tribute
Outside Woolwich Crown Court, Ada’s father, Bora Bicakcim, spoke emotionally:
“The images of that horrific moment remain seared into my mind. That scene replays endlessly, a constant reminder of the day my world fractured beyond repair. My darling Ada… your presence and passing will leave a mark in this country. We will fight to make drug driving a part of history.”
Bora described Ada as the family’s beacon of light and vowed to campaign for tougher drug-driving laws in the UK.
Justice Served
At a hearing on 22 April, Asolo-Ogugua pleaded guilty to both charges. Today, he was sentenced to:
- Four years in prison
- Seven-year driving ban
Senior Crown Prosecutor Miranda Jollie condemned his behaviour:
“Asolo-Ogugua was reckless and utterly selfish to get behind the wheel of a bus after consuming drugs. His actions robbed a young girl of her life. I hope this sentence brings some measure of closure for Ada’s loved ones.”
