Two Albanians Remanded Over Fatal Gillingham Hit-and-Run
Two Albanian nationals appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court charged over a deadly hit-and-run in Gillingham that killed 89-year-old Thomas Wallace. Both men were remanded into custody, with their case set for Maidstone Crown Court later this month.
Serious Charges Laid
- Albert Matraxhiu, 28, of Edgware, faces:
- Death by dangerous driving
- Failing to stop after a collision
- Driving without insurance
- Driving without a proper licence
- Perverting the course of justice
- Failing to report a collision
- Erald Paci, 29, of Chatham, is charged with:
- Perverting the course of justice
- Criminal damage to a police cell
Deadly Crash on A289 Gads Hill
The tragic collision happened around 12:10pm on Monday, 29 December 2025, on the A289 Gads Hill. A grey Mercedes estate slammed into Thomas Wallace, a local pensioner. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but despite efforts from the South East Coast Ambulance Service, Mr Wallace was pronounced dead at the scene.
The offending Mercedes was later found abandoned on Eastcourt Lane. The occupants had fled on foot, sparking a major police hunt.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Detectives urge anyone with dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage from the area at the time to come forward. Witnesses are urged to contact Kent Police on 01622 798538 or email [email protected], quoting reference EW/LB/093/25. Footage can also be uploaded via the Kent Police online portal.
