A 21-year-old woman from Birżebbuġa has been charged with involuntary homicide following a fatal traffic accident in Fgura earlier this year.

Chloe Caruana was allegedly driving a Toyota Hilux pick-up truck along Hompesch Road on January 6 when she struck two Nepalese pedestrians, killing one and seriously injuring the other.

The victim, 24-year-old Baral Gauri Kumari, suffered severe brain injuries and died five days later. Her companion, 34-year-old Urmila Karki Thapa, sustained grievous injuries.

Caruana pleaded not guilty to involuntary homicide, reckless driving, and causing grievous bodily harm when she appeared in court on Thursday.

Police Inspector Francesca Calleja testified that officers were alerted after a man called the Paola police station to report that two pedestrians had been run over. When police arrived, they found the women on the ground, with personal items - including slippers, a scarf, and a bag - scattered nearby.

The Toyota Hilux had sustained significant damage to its bonnet. Caruana was informed of her rights, and shortly afterward, her father, Adrian Caruana, arrived at the scene, telling police the vehicle belonged to him and that its insurance only covered drivers aged 25 and above.

Under cross-examination, a police sergeant confirmed that the accident happened near Super Shop in Fgura, though not directly by a pedestrian crossing. He said he had not personally viewed any CCTV footage.

Inspector Calleja added that the surviving victim remained in Malta until July and gave testimony during the magisterial inquiry.

A Transport Malta representative presented Caruana's driving licence and the vehicle's registration details, while another official confirmed that the speed limit in that area is 50 km/h.

At the end of the sitting, Magistrate Caroline Farrugia Frendo ruled that there is a case to answer. The case will resume in December.

The prosecution is being led by AG lawyer Darlene Grima together with Inspector Calleja. Lawyer Amadeus Cachia is representing the accused, while lawyer Jonathan Abela is appearing on behalf of the victims.