Lorry driver admits killing four after crashing into back of minibus on M25 – leaving families ‘truly heartbroken’
A MAN has admitted to killing four people when his lorry smashed into the back of a minibus.
Ethan Burdett, 67, slammed his vehicle into the van that was carrying 11 people in August 2021.
Tragically, three people were killed instantly in the Essex smash – while another woman later died of her injuries.
Four others were also seriously injured.
Abigael Muamba, 31, Dexter Augustus, 60, Jennifer Smith, 59, and Lisa Gardiner, 44, were all killed in the smash.
Burdett this week pleaded guilty to causing the death of four people due to careless driving at Chelmsford Crown Court.
The three-vehicle collision unfolded on the anti-clockwise carriageway near Waltham Abbey, Essex in 2021.
Burdett had been travelling between Junction 27 to Junction 26.
As he approached the exit slip road to junction 26, he failed to react to stationary traffic queuing in lane 1 and collided with the rear of the minibus which – shunted forward and struck a car.
Tributes poured in for those killed in the wake of the smash.
Abigael’s parents said they were “truly heartbroken” and said they will remember her “helpful heart and youthful spirit”.
The 31-year-old was also remembered for her “smile and dedication” to her parents.
They said Abigael, of Edmonton Green, North London was generous and moral with so much life left to give to those she loved.
Jennifer, a service manager from Stratford, East London, was called a popular figure within her community.
Her family said she was “loved beyond words” and praised her tireless and selfless work to help vulnerable people, including mothers, babies and adults facing difficulties.
They added: “We, her family, will never be the same.”
She left behind a daughter, two sons and five grandchildren.
Dexter, of Waltham Forest, North London was described as a loved son, brother, father, grandfather and friend.
Those who knew him said his “vivacious energy made him the life and soul of every gathering”.
His family said he will be greatly missed and remembered his passion for ice-skating, chess and designing jewellery.
Dexter was studying computer programming, electronics and Autocad.
The keen plasterer was always on hand to help with construction matters.
Lisa’s family said she will be hugely missed by all.
They described her as always considerate, caring towards others and said she would always be there to help family and friends.
They added that Lisa, of Walthamstow, Essex was a “beautiful wife and mother”, always full of life with a heart that knew no bounds.
Burdette will be sentenced over the deaths in July.
Roads Policing officer Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, who led the investigation said: “My thoughts, and those of all my officers who have been involved in the investigation, continue to be with the families and friends who lost their loved ones that evening.”
