Man charged over death of NI woman struck by moped
A MAN has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving after a woman from Northern Ireland was struck by a moped.
Lesley Bello-Hernandez (67), a former pupil of Coleraine High School, died earlier this week in Cambridge.
She was walking on Arbury Road at around 2.15pm on Wednesday when the collision happened.
Ms Bello-Hernandez was crossing the road at the time and died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics.
Cambridgeshire City Police said they had tried to stop the moped shortly before the collision and an independent investigation has now been launched.
Jack O’Donnell (25) of Tempsford Avenue, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, appeared in Cambridge Magistrates Court yesterday.
He was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death while driving unlicensed, and causing death while driving uninsured.
A plea has yet to be entered and O’Donnell was remanded in custody until the case is heard on March 15.
A 19-year-old woman was also arrested after the crash but has since been released under investigation.
The grandmother’s family paid tribute to “a bright soul and the light of our lives”.
Her son Jamie Bello-Hernandez (37) said: “It is not something I expected I would have to write this time yesterday, however, I think our family would agree, she was an extremely loving and kind sister, mother and grandmother.
“She always did more than she needed for the family, so we are devastated by the loss of such a bright soul and the light of our lives.
“There are no words, just heartbreak right now”.
“We will not comment on the details of the terrible circumstances surrounding her death and request privacy during this difficult time.”
Ms Bello-Hernandez had studied languages at Royal Holloway, University of London and later worked as a manager at the University of Cambridge and taught at Witchford Village College.
Hundreds have paid tribute to the popular French teacher on social media.
One recalled “a fun and inspirational teacher”.
Funeral details for Ms Bello-Hernandez have yet to be announced.