Speeding Tesla driver who killed two women on M4 jailed

Firas Zeineddine, of Bluebell Drive in Keynsham, aquaplaned his Tesla Model Y in conditions caused by Storm Babet while going more than 90mph in the outside lane of the M4 eastbound near Junction 17 around 9am on October 20, 2023. The 46-year-old then overcorrected his steering before hitting the front offside bumper and then the steering axel of a HGV in lane one. At the time, 61-year-old Cheryl Woods and 40-year-old Sarha Smith from Caerphilly had stopped on the hard shoulder of the motorway with a National Highways vehicle following a minor collision.

(Image: Wiltshire Police) Due to the impact from Zeineddine's vehicle, the HGV collided with and fell on Cheryl and Sarha's Volkswagen T-Roc, and narrowly missed the Highways officer. The mother and daughter were sadly declared dead at the scene. The defendant pleaded guilty to two counts of death by careless driving and appeared at Swindon Crown Court on Monday, April 28, where he received a 12-month prison sentence.

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A tribute from the victim's families which was shared shortly after the crash said: "Cheryl Woods, cherished by those in her life, fulfilled the roles of a loving mother, doting grandmother, cherished sister, and a dear friend. (Image: From public) "Her selflessness was a defining trait, consistently prioritising her family's well-being over her own, and she took immense pride in her Welsh heritage while nurturing a deep love for nature. "Sarha Smith, in the footsteps of her mother, unselfishly devoted herself to her family's needs ahead of her own.

"She was not only a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, but her absence leaves a void for those who relied on her radiant presence. "Her legacy lives on through her six daughters, who will forever hold her memory close and strive to honour her with their efforts." Recommended reading

A fundraiser set up to cover the costs of the funerals and support Sarha's six children, who are aged between three and 22-years-old, raised more than GBP15,000. Rob Smith, who organised it, wrote: "We are deeply saddened to share the devastating news of the tragic loss of two incredible women. "As we come together to mourn their untimely departure, we also want to extend our support to their grieving family.

"Your donations will ensure that these young girls have the stability and resources necessary to rebuild their lives and pursue a hopeful future. "We express our deepest gratitude for your generosity and support during this difficult time. May Sarha Smith and Cheryl Woods rest in eternal peace."

(Image: Wiltshire Police) Investigating officer DC Sean Williams, from Wiltshire Police's Serious Collision Investigation Team, said: "This is an utterly tragic and needless incident which has seen two women lose their lives. "Zeineddine's speeding in the conditions was completely reckless and he admitted having impaired vision due to the amount of mist and spray that was coming off the road. "Despite this, data from his Tesla showed his speed was in excess of 90mph.

"Once his vehicle started to aquaplane in the standing water, due to the speed he was driving, he lost complete control. "I'm pleased he has pleaded guilty which has prevented the victims' family from having to relive the details through a trial.

"Cheryl and Sarha's deaths sadly provide a clear illustration of why it is vital to drive to the conditions, no matter where you are.

"Any mistake or unforeseen incident, particularly at the speeds Zeineddine was driving, can have fatal consequences."