FOUR men are due to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court this month charged with wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm after an NHS worker was struck by a car as he walked home from work in Bristol.
Katungua Tjitendero, now 24, suffered significant injuries including a broken leg and nose and extensive facial injuries and reported being racially abused in the incident on Monks Park Avenue, Horfield, on Wednesday 22 July 2020. He is now recovering physically and has since been able to continue performing music and return to work.
A dedicated team of detectives has worked with data forensic specialists, collision investigators, crime scene investigators and forensic scientists in the complex two-year investigation, with progress monitored by both the Avon and Somerset Police chief officer group and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The men facing charges are:
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Phillip Adams, 25, of Southmead
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Patrick James, 21, of Lawrence Weston
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Jordan McCarthy, 21 of Lawrence Weston
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Daniel Whereatt, 49, of Bedminster
A fifth man who was arrested in connection with the investigation faces no further action.
Patrick James also faces a charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving in connection with an earlier, similar incident. On Sunday 12 July 2020 a vehicle mounted the pavement on Broadlands Drive, Lawrence Weston, Bristol, injuring a man on a bicycle and failing to stop.
The cyclist, a man in his fifties, was hospitalised for treatment to injuries including fractured ribs, a collapsed lung and bruising.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Mike Buck said: “We understand the length of time this complex investigation has taken has been difficult and frustrating, taking its toll on Katungua and his family.
“Criminal proceedings are now under way and the defendants have a right to a fair trial. It’s important that there is no reporting, commentary or online posting which could prejudice this case and prevent justice from being done.”