A man has admitted guilt in the fatal hit-and-run of a university student, whom he struck with his van in central London.

Aalia Mahomed, aged 20, a second-year physics and philosophy student at King’s College London, lost her life at the accident scene on the Strand on March 18, 2025.

Christopher Jackson, 27, from Southampton, appeared at the Old Bailey on Monday and accepted charges of causing death through dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury under similar circumstances.

The court was previously informed that Jackson’s van crashed into a metal gate, dislodging it, before it struck the bench where Aalia was seated.

Following the tragedy, Aalia’s family described her as a radiant, kind-hearted individual whose presence brought happiness and laughter to those around her.

Additionally, two individuals, Irem Yoldas and Yamin Belmessous, sustained injuries in the incident.

During the hearing, Jackson entered his plea with a somber demeanor, his head lowered as he largely kept his gaze fixed on the floor.

Prosecutor Fiona Robertson expressed that Mahomed’s family, along with the other injured victims, are anxious for Jackson to be sentenced prior to the anniversary of the tragedy.

Judge Philip Katz KC remarked, “It is inevitable that a substantial custodial sentence will be imposed.”

Defense attorney Jessica Clarke informed the court that Jackson has three young children with his fiancée and has been attempting to “earn as much as possible” for his family before sentencing.

She added, “Unlike many cases involving death by dangerous driving, which often include excessive speed, alcohol, and drugs, this was simply a tragic accident.”

Jackson, who has been remanded into custody, is set to receive his sentence at the same court on March 6.

Following the hearing, Aalia’s family released a statement saying, “Our primary concern has always been to ensure accountability for this tragic event… We now await the sentencing outcome in March.

“Moving forward, the family wishes to create a lasting legacy for Aalia.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Donna Smith from the Metropolitan Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit stated, “Our thoughts are with Aalia’s friends and family during this difficult time.

“We can only fathom the depth of their anguish and understand that nothing can reverse what has occurred.

“We hope that today’s guilty plea offers them a small sense of solace.”

She also expressed gratitude to the public who assisted Aalia, those who contributed to the police investigation, and the officers involved in the case.