A recovery driver, Mohammed Azim, 41, stands trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court accused of murdering his 19-year-old girlfriend, Lily Whitehouse, on Bonfire Night last year in Oldbury, West Midlands. Prosecutors allege Azim deliberately used his Mercedes Sprinter van to trap Ms Whitehouse against a lamppost after a heated argument, causing fatal injuries.
Bonfire Night Fatal Row
The deadly incident happened on Old Park Lane shortly after Ms Whitehouse had visited her newborn baby in the neonatal unit at Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley. Azim, celebrating his 41st birthday, was involved in a violent dispute with Ms Whitehouse, with whom he had an on-off relationship since 2023.
Alleged Use Of Vehicle As
Prosecutor Rachel Brand KC told the court that Azim allegedly used his recovery van to pin Ms Whitehouse against a lamppost, inflicting catastrophic internal injuries. Instead of calling emergency services immediately, Azim is said to have lifted the injured woman back into his van and driven away from the scene.
Police Questioning And Evidence
West Midlands Police investigated after paramedics were unable to save Ms Whitehouse at nearby Park Street. Azim mostly responded with “no comment” when questioned about the fatal injuries. The prosecution is relying on vehicle impact data and Azim’s behaviour after the incident to support the murder charge.
Defence Claims Tragic Accident
Azim denies the murder charge. The defence will argue that Ms Whitehouse’s death was a tragic accident, possibly caused when she tripped and fell in front of the moving van. The trial is expected to last around seven days under a High Court judge.
