An uninsured driver has pleaded guilty to causing the death of four-year-old Mayar Yahia after ploughing his car into pedestrians on a Birmingham pavement as they walked home from Eid celebrations. Javonnie Tavener, 23, admitted all charges at Birmingham Crown Court on Wednesday, including causing death by careless driving and driving without insurance.
The tragedy unfolded on Upper Highgate Street on 14 April last year when Tavener lost control of his Vauxhall Corsa after speeding through a barrier. The vehicle mounted the pavement and struck little Mayar, her mother Sara, and their neighbour, leaving the child fatally injured and two women with serious injuries.
Paramedics pronounced Mayar dead at the scene despite desperate attempts to save her life. Three other pedestrians also suffered injuries in the devastating collision that has prompted renewed calls for safer streets across Birmingham.
Split-Second Decision Led to Tragedy
Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, from West Midlands Police’s serious collision investigation unit, condemned Tavener’s reckless actions that robbed a family of their beloved daughter. Mayar was just four years old when her life was tragically taken away from her. She was walking back with her family and friends after celebrating Eid,” he stated.
The officer emphasised the fundamental right to pedestrian safety, adding: “Pedestrians should be afforded and be reassured of protection when walking on the pavement and a split-second decision by Tavener to overtake where he did has led to this tragic chain of events.”
DS Hughes urged all motorists to consider the catastrophic consequences of dangerous driving decisions, warning: “I would urge all drivers to think about this incident and how those decisions can have such catastrophic consequences.”
Father’s Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional statement released through West Midlands Police, Mayar’s father Babiker Yahia spoke of his overwhelming grief and the irreplaceable loss his family has suffered. “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share the devastating loss of our cherished daughter, Mayar,” he said.
The grieving father described his daughter as “an extraordinary young girl, only four-years-old, full of life and joy,” adding that “her absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives.”
He revealed the special bond he shared with his youngest child, stating: “Among all, she held a special place in my heart. Words fail to capture the depth of our grief and the magnitude of this loss.”
Community Support Praised
Despite their unimaginable loss, the Yahia family expressed gratitude for the support they have received from their community. Mr Yahia acknowledged those who have stood by the family during their darkest hours.
However, we find solace and strength in the unwavering support and compassion shown by the police officers, our community, family, and friends,” he said. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who have stood by our side, offering your love, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
The family’s dignified response to the tragedy has moved many in the local community, who have rallied around them with messages of condolence and practical support.
Calls for Safer Streets Intensify
The fatal collision has galvanised road safety campaigners in Birmingham, with the street where Mayar died now set to be pedestrianised following a sustained campaign for safer roads. The tragedy occurred against a backdrop of mounting concern about road safety in the city.
Campaign group Better Streets for Birmingham held a demonstration just days after Mayar’s death, demanding immediate action to protect pedestrians. Mat MacDonald, co-chair of the group, highlighted the ongoing dangers faced by residents and schoolchildren in areas plagued by speeding and dangerous driving.
Birmingham City Council declared a road safety emergency in July 2024 following a series of serious and fatal crashes across the city’s road network. The authority has since adopted a road harm reduction strategy, allocating £10 million towards an action plan aimed at preventing future tragedies.
Criminal Charges and Court Proceedings
Tavener, of Birmingham, was charged with multiple offences following a police investigation into the collision. He faced counts of causing death by careless driving, causing death whilst driving uninsured, and two counts of causing serious injury by careless driving.
The 23-year-old appeared at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court in early July before being remanded in custody. His guilty plea at Birmingham Crown Court on 30 July means he now faces a substantial prison sentence for his actions.
The case has highlighted the devastating consequences of driving without insurance and the importance of road safety measures. Tavener has been remanded in custody while awaiting his sentencing date, which has yet to be announced.
Operation Triton Targets Dangerous Driving
West Midlands Police have reminded the public of Operation Triton, their dedicated road safety strategy aimed at tackling dangerous driving across the region. The campaign involves focused operations in key areas, targeting what police call the “fatal four” contributing factors to serious collisions.
These include speeding, drink and drug driving, using a mobile phone while driving, and not wearing a seatbelt. A police spokesperson emphasised: “It is crucial that all road users act in a responsible manner, acknowledging the dangers that can be presented on roads.
The force added: “It is also vital that proper care is taken at all times and that drivers and riders act in a responsible manner befitting the risks they can present to others on the roads.”
As Birmingham continues to grapple with road safety challenges, Mayar’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of careless driving and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect vulnerable road users.
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