Mercedes Driver In Court After Wandsworth Bridge Tragedy

Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida

A Mercedes driver appeared in court today charged in relation to the tragic death of an engaged psychology graduate, described as a “true princess,” who was fatally injured on Wandsworth Bridge.

Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida, 27, studied psychology at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland and graduated from King’s College London with a Master of Science in Psychology.

She was pronounced dead at the scene after being struck just to the south of the bridge while crossing Bridgend Road, Wandsworth at 10.00pm on March 16, last year.

Octavian Cadar, 38, of Exmoor House, Clydesdale Way, Belvedere, Bexley appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates Court charged with one count of causing death by dangerous driving.

He was bailed unconditionally to appear at the Old Bailey on January 16, next year.

Despite an Air Ambulance attending the scene, sadly nothing could be done to save Charlotte, who was employed by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust as a research assistant within their Department of Psychology.

She is the daughter of Ecuadorian politician Carlos Sagnay de la Bastia - uncle of private art collector Harriet Clapham, the wife of Sotheby’s director Harry Primrose, Lord Dalmeny. 

Her fiancé Michael Williams was allowed into court to attend the conclusion of today’s hearing, as Cadar was bailed to appear at the Central Criminal Court.

Octavian Cadar

Following the tragedy Charlotte’s closest friend Kristina Smirnoffa wrote: “It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida at the young age of twenty-seven.

“Charlotte was everything, a loving fiancé to Michael, a caring friend, a kind daughter, a hard worker, a fantastic cheerleader.

“Charlotte was the main character in most of our lives. Charlotte lit up every room she walked into.

“She was a true princess and a fighter. She was beautiful inside and out…for the way she thought…for the way her eyes sparkled…for the way she lifted others up around her.

“She was taken from us so soon, so suddenly, without a goodbye. Charlotte will be missed dearly.”

At the time Detective Constable Jenny Burr, who led the initial investigation, said: “Wandsworth Bridge is a popular and busy route across the Thames and it is likely that people either witnessed the collision, or may have dash-cam footage that could assist our investigation.

“I am appealing to those people to get in touch. Our thoughts are with her family.”