Incident and Victims
A man accused of murdering a woman by "deliberately" driving at her and her partner stated in court that he has been left "devastated" by her death.
Shelley Davies, 38, and David Bratcher, 40, sustained serious injuries outside the 4th Glamorgan Home Guard Club in Caerau, Cardiff, on 27 September. Shelley Davies died in hospital three weeks later.
Details of the Incident
Kian Bateman, 19, from Caerau, "accelerated" his car towards the pair after witnessing an "altercation" involving them and his brother Kai Bateman outside the venue, Cardiff Crown Court was previously told.
Bateman admitted to causing death and injury by dangerous driving but denies the charges of murdering Davies and attempting to murder Bratcher.
Court Evidence and Footage
Jurors were shown footage that appeared to depict the defendant's brother punching Davies after she "hit out" at a balloon in his hand and threw a drink at him.
The court also heard that the defendant was seen on CCTV inhaling nitrous oxide from a balloon, a substance the prosecution claims can increase aggression.
Defendant’s Testimony
During his testimony on Monday, Bateman was questioned by his barrister, Caroline Rees KC, about the effects of nitrous oxide.
He denied that the drug made him feel aggressive or caused any negative emotions.
"I just drove, I didn't know why I did it… I was just scared like, I wish it never happened."
Bateman explained that he had initially gone to the club to watch a DJ perform and had briefly driven to his girlfriend's house before returning.
"When I came back there was a big crowd gathered and everyone was shouting and arguing… Really loud, everyone was shouting,"he told the court.
"I seen glasses getting thrown, people arguing and pushing each other out the way."
He said he felt "petrified" by the scene outside the club and, when asked by Rees what he was afraid of, he replied,
"getting hurt".
Bateman expressed his devastation over the events and stated he had no intention of harming anyone. He said he was in shock when he learned he had run over Davies.
Charges and Pleas
Bateman denies charges including murder, manslaughter, attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and inflicting grievous bodily harm.
He has previously pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
