Man Denies Murder After Deadly E-Bike Crash Kills Two Young Men
A 29-year-old man has denied murdering two young men in a fatal smash involving a black e-bike. Alex Rose appeared via video link from Wandsworth Prison at Guildford Crown Court and pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and a charge of perverting the course of justice.
Crash Details and Court Drama
The tragedy unfolded on July 22 on the A316 southbound slip road off the M3 in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey. William Birchard, 21, and Darren George, 22, lost their lives in the collision. Prosecutors say Rose tried to cover his tracks by falsely reporting his black Ford Ranger as stolen between July 21 and 22 to mislead the police.
During the brief hearing, Rose confirmed his identity and entered his not guilty pleas. He remains in custody as the case moves forward.
Co-Defendant Accused of Helping Rose Escape
Tara Knaggs, 24, from Great Ayton, Yorkshire, is also caught up in the case. She pleaded not guilty to assisting an offender, accused of booking flights and a hotel for Rose in a bid to help him flee the authorities. She denied all charges and will face trial alongside Rose.
Trial Date Set and Community Mourns
Both defendants are scheduled for trial on August 11, 2025, with a preliminary court hearing planned for January. Meanwhile, the deaths of Birchard and George have rocked their families and local community, sparking an outpouring of grief and tributes.
Stay tuned for more updates as this high-profile case develops.
