Charges were dropped this morning against a man accused of killing an American tourist in a road accident and injuring her nine-year-old daughter.

Van driver Harold Simons, 44, was charged with causing the death of Martha Hoopes by dangerous driving and causing actual bodily harm to her daughter Ashley.

Mrs. Hoopes, 39, died after her rental cycle came into collision with Mr. Simons’ van on Middle Road, Southampton, on March 24 last year.

Her daughter, who was riding pillion, required hospital treatment for her injuries.

Crown counsel Maria Sofianos did not give any reasons for the charges being dropped during the brief hearing before Puisne Judge Charles-Etta Simons.

Mr. Simons, of Bob’s Valley Road, Sandys, had been on bail since he was charged last October. The judge told him he was free to go.

See tomorrow’s edition of The Royal Gazette for the full story and reaction to this news.