Luciano Spirito, 25, has pleaded guilty to causing the death of 19-year-old Darcy Thomsett by dangerous driving. The collision occurred on February 11, 2023, on the A20 near Farningham. At the time of the crash, Spirito's vehicle reportedly reached speeds of 137 mph in the seconds leading up to the impact.
Spirito, from Bromley, appeared at Maidstone Crown Court where he admitted to causing death by dangerous driving, causing death while driving uninsured, and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The crash involved Spirito's red Polo GTI and a Mercedes Sprinter at a junction with Eglantine Lane around 10:50 p.m. Four other passengers in the Polo were taken to the hospital following the incident.
Judge Julian Smith described Spirito's speed as "off the scale" and informed him that he should expect to be imprisoned when sentenced on November 18. The prosecution is expected to present evidence of the vehicle's speed. Defense counsel suggested Spirito was driving around 115 mph, but acknowledged this would not significantly alter the sentencing outcome.
Ms. Thomsett's family paid tribute to her, describing her as "always full of colour" and "unique and irreplaceable." Her funeral was held on March 17, 2023. In her memory, friends and family have raised thousands of pounds for charity.
Spirito was granted unconditional bail and is scheduled to appear back at Maidstone Crown Court for sentencing. He has received an interim disqualification from driving.