West Midlands Police have charged a man in connection with the deaths of two men who were struck by a car in separate incidents on the same day in Coventry.
Emiljano Kasaj, 33, of no fixed address, has been charged with the murders of pedestrian Leo Moran, 44, and cyclist Joel Carriedo, 47. The two men were hit by the same vehicle in separate incidents on 3 September.
Mr Moran was struck on Gosford Street, while Mr Carriedo was hit on Woodway Lane. Additionally, Mr Kasaj is charged with the attempted murder of a third man who was injured after being hit by the vehicle.
Mr Kasaj appeared at Coventry Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and is due to appear at Warwick Crown Court on 9 September.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police stated that the incident is not being treated as terror-related. Officers are currently supporting the victims’ families during this difficult time.
Tributes
In a heartfelt tribute, Mr Carriedo’s family said: “Joel was a loving husband and father-of-two, who worked extremely hard as a healthcare assistant at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him. We thank all of the community for their continued support during this very difficult time. May he rest in peace and God bless his soul.”
Prof Andy Hardy, chief executive of the hospital trust, added: “His passion for caring for others shone through in everything he did.”
Mr Moran’s family also shared their grief: “Leo was an amazing son, brother, uncle and friend to so many. He brought so much laughter and fun to all of our lives. We are completely heartbroken at the loss of Leo, who was taken from us so soon.”
