Zoe Shapiro tragedy: Driver in court over death of Great Barr schoolgirl
A motorist has appeared in court charged with causing the death of a 17-year-old Great Barr student.
Neel Balu was at Birmingham magistrates today charged over the death of Zoe Shapiro, who attended Q3 Academy.
Zoe died after being involved in a road accident in Birmingham Road, Great Barr, on February 24.
Balu, 42, of Woodside Close, Park Hall, Walsall, faces a charge of causing death by dangerous driving.
He is also charged with fraud, in that he failed to tell his insurance company that he had three convictions for driving offences and also an 'at fault' claim when applying for a policy.
Balu did not enter any pleas and his case was adjourned until November 1 to appear at Birmingham Crown Court. He was released on unconditional bail.
Zoe, who had planned to study psychology at university, was described as a 'wonderful young lady' following her death by Q3 Academy principal Dr Caroline Badyal.
She was actively engaged in school life, supporting younger students through the mentoring project.
