A London bus driver has been jailed for four years after causing the death of nine-year-old Ada Bicakcim, who was struck on the pavement while walking with her family in Bexleyheath last August.
The driver, Martin Asolo-Ogugua, 23, admitted to causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs (cannabis) after partying all night and turning up for duty on August 3, 2024.
Tragic Morning on Watling Street
At around 9.30am, Asolo-Ogugua’s bus mounted the pavement on Watling Street, hitting Ada and narrowly missing her five-year-old brother. Ada was rushed to hospital but tragically died two days later.
A drug test conducted at the scene revealed the presence of cannabis in his system. He was arrested and later charged with the fatal offences in February 2025.
A Father’s Heartbreaking Tribute
Speaking outside Woolwich Crown Court today, Bora Bicakcim, Ada’s father, gave an emotional statement:
“The images of that horrific moment remain seared into my mind.
That scene replays endlessly, a constant reminder of the day my world fractured beyond repair.
My darling Ada… your presence and passing will leave a mark in this country.
We will fight to make drug driving a part of history.”
He described his daughter as a beacon of light in their family and vowed to campaign for stronger action against drug driving in the UK.
Court Outcome
At a previous hearing on April 22, Asolo-Ogugua pleaded guilty to both charges. Today, he was sentenced to:
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Four years imprisonment
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Seven-year driving disqualification
Senior Crown Prosecutor Miranda Jollie said:
“Asolo-Ogugua was reckless and utterly selfish to get behind the wheel of a bus after consuming drugs.
His actions have robbed a young girl of her life. I hope this sentence brings some measure of closure for Ada’s loved ones.”
