Two Albanian nationals appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident in Gillingham that claimed the life of 89-year-old pensioner Thomas Wallace. Both men were remanded into custody, with their case scheduled for Maidstone Crown Court later this month.
Serious Charges Laid
Albert Matraxhiu, 28, of Edgware, faces multiple charges including death by dangerous driving, failing to stop after a collision, driving without insurance, driving without a proper licence, perverting the course of justice, and failing to report a collision.
Erald Paci, 29, of Chatham, is charged with perverting the course of justice and criminal damage to a police cell.
Deadly Crash on A289 Gads Hill
The tragic collision occurred at approximately 12:10pm on Monday, 29 December 2025, on the A289 Gads Hill. A grey Mercedes estate vehicle struck Thomas Wallace, a local pensioner. Emergency services, including the South East Coast Ambulance Service, responded swiftly, but Mr Wallace was pronounced dead at the scene.
The grey Mercedes was later discovered abandoned on Eastcourt Lane. The occupants fled the scene on foot, prompting a significant police search.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Detectives are urging anyone with dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage from the area at the time of the incident to come forward. Witnesses are encouraged to contact Kent Police on 01622 798538 or email [email protected], quoting reference EW/LB/093/25. Footage can also be uploaded via the Kent Police online portal.
Originally published by UKNIP.
