Hürth Traffic Crash Killing Schoolchild and Caregiver Goes to Trial

On Wednesday, the Cologne Regional Court heard closing arguments in the case of a fatal traffic accident that occurred in June 2025 on Frechener Straße in Hürth, Germany. Prosecutors and the defence presented their final requests regarding the 21‑year‑old driver accused of negligent homicide. The crash killed ten‑year‑old Avin and her school aide Louis Paolo, while two other children suffered minor injuries.

Evidence shows the traffic light had been red for four seconds when the vehicle entered the intersection, and the victims were crossing on a green signal while wearing high‑visibility vests. The driver was not speeding, had no alcohol or drug influence, and a technical inspection ruled out vehicle failure. If convicted, he faces a multi‑year prison sentence.