Hussein Mangala: Alleged hit and run driver faces Darwin Local Court
An alleged hit and run driver has faced court over the death of a 27-year-old father of two. SEE THE VIDEO
Police & Courts
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AN INTERPRETER softly echoed Judge Elisabeth Armitage’s words as she informed an alleged hit and run killer of the seriousness of his upcoming court case.
Hussein Edward Mangala, 40, appeared in Darwin Local Court on Wednesday facing accusations he was responsible for a fatal hit and run that resulted in the death of a young father late last year.
Police will allege Mangala was behind the wheel of the vehicle which struck a 27-year-old man at Marrara on Sunday, December 19.
The young father was found unconscious on Batten Rd just after midnight, with paramedics unable to revive him after attempted CPR.
At the time, Major Crash Investigations Unit Senior Sergeant Corey Borton said the dark conditions meant it was possible the driver was unaware they had hit a person.
At the time NT Police released CCTV footage of a vehicle travelling down the darkened road in their appeal for more information.
The wife of the man who died, who did not wish to be named, made an impassioned plea on behalf of herself and their young children as investigators pieced together the fatal crash.
“We have a young widow and two little kids who don’t have their dad this Christmas or ever again, and somebody knows what happened,” Sgt Borton said.
“Please help us bring this family some closure.”
Seventeen days after the crash, police announced the arrest of a man they alleged was involved.
“If you are involved in a crash, stop immediately, render assistance and call police,” Sgt Borton warned following the man’sarrest.
“Running is futile.”
Mangala appeared before Ms Armitage on Wednesday accused of hit and run driving causing death.
The 40-year-old silently nodded as his Swahili translator explained the court process.
Mangala will appear in a preliminary examination to determine if he will face the higher courts.
His bail was extended until his next court appearance on Wednesday April 27.
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