.svg)
A recovery truck driver accused of murdering his teenage girlfriend has told a jury that he lied to police about how she died because he was in shock and "panicked."
Mohammed Azim, 41, is standing trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court over the death of 19-year-old Lily Whitehouse in Oldbury on November 5 last year. Prosecutors allege Azim deliberately used his flatbed recovery truck to crush Ms Whitehouse against a lamppost following an argument on his birthday.
Ms Whitehouse suffered catastrophic chest injuries and died at the scene.
Azim denies murder and maintains that the incident was a tragic accident. Giving evidence in court, he said he accidentally struck Ms Whitehouse after dropping her off near her home.
However, prosecutors highlighted that Azim initially told emergency services and police that another vehicle had hit Ms Whitehouse before leaving the scene. During cross-examination, prosecutor Rachel Brand KC argued that the defendant repeatedly changed his account and lied to avoid responsibility.
The court heard that Azim claimed he witnessed a hit-and-run collision, even pointing out a similar vehicle to officers and expressing anger toward the supposed driver. He later admitted making those statements but said he was not thinking clearly at the time.
According to Azim, the traumatic nature of the incident left him confused and unable to process what had happened. He told jurors that he struggled to accept the reality of the situation and acted out of panic.
Prosecutors also questioned Azim about several other statements allegedly made while in custody, including comments about his relationship with Ms Whitehouse and details surrounding the events leading up to her death. Azim said he could not remember some of those conversations, stating that he had been taking medication.
The defendant rejected allegations that he deliberately pursued Ms Whitehouse with his vehicle following an argument. He insisted there had been no reason to chase her and claimed she had wanted to return with him before the incident occurred.
During questioning by his defence lawyer, Azim became emotional while discussing his mental state following Ms Whitehouse's death. He told the court he had received medical treatment and was still taking medication but was no longer being monitored over concerns for his welfare.
The trial continues.
