Driver charged over death of girl, 3, hit by car in Sydney

A man has faced court charged with negligent driving over the death of a three-year-old girl hit by a Range Rover pulling into a suburban driveway in Sydney’s west.

The three-year-old girl was on Normanby Road, Auburn when she was struck by the black SUV about 2pm on Tuesday. She was rushed to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition, where she was declared dead.

Police investigate on Normanby Road, Auburn after a three-year-old girl was killed after she was hit by the black Range Rover on Tuesday afternoon. Wolter PeetersPolice comb through the driveway and its surrounds on Tuesday evening.Wolter PeetersThe 27-year-old driver, Sandip Adhikari, was taken to Auburn Hospital for mandatory testing following the fatal crash.

After being released from hospital, he was charged with negligent driving occasioning death.

Outside Burwood Local Court on Wednesday morning, Adhikari said he was “very sorry” for the girl’s family.

Sandip Adhikari outside Burwood Local Court on Wednesday.Sitthixay DitthavongHe was flanked by supporters as he tried to obscure his face from cameras with sheets of paper.

Police believe Adhikari is not related to the girl. They are investigating his relationship with the occupants of the home and the circumstances leading to the crash.

Adhikari has not yet entered a plea and will remain on bail until his next court appearance on October 27.

“This is a very, very sad case,” Adhikari’s lawyer, Danny Eid, said.

“He’s very, very stressed and worried about the family, worried about their welfare.”

“He’s asked me to relay his deep sadness to the whole family who have lost a beautiful young child.”

The driver of the Range Rover isn’t related to the girl, police say.Wolter PeetersAdvertisementForensic officers photographed the Range Rover in the driveway of the suburban home, including the driver’s seat and boot of the car.

CCTV from a property near where the three-year-old girl was struck.Nine NewsNormanby Road lies one block behind The Crescent, a busy street that straddles the railway tracks to Auburn Station.

Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

Remove items from your saved list to add more.