Attempted Murder Trial Underway in Norfolk

Tancredo Bankhardt, 41, is currently on trial at Norwich Crown Court facing charges of attempted murder. He is accused of intentionally endangering the lives of three children by driving his car into oncoming traffic on September 26th of last year.

Details of the Incident

The Collision

The incident occurred on the A146 road between Loddon and Hales in Norfolk. Prosecutors claim Bankhardt deliberately caused a serious collision, also intending to end his own life. Multiple vehicles were involved, and several people sustained injuries, though thankfully, no fatalities occurred.

Unsecured Seatbelts

A key element of the prosecution’s case is that Bankhardt did not properly secure the children in the vehicle. The court heard that he placed the seatbelts on top of the buckles, rendering them ineffective in the event of a crash. This detail is presented as evidence of his intent to cause harm.

Evidence Presented by the Prosecution

Suicidal Ideation

Prior to the crash, Bankhardt sent audio messages expressing suicidal thoughts and seeking forgiveness. One message included the statement, “I hope God doesn’t treat me badly up there… See you in the next life.” A recipient described him as “tearful and depressed,” stating he believed he was “doing all this for the best.”

Driving Pattern Before the Crash

Following the messages, police were alerted. Bankhardt then spent approximately two hours driving repeatedly around roundabouts on the A146. During this time, he made further distressed calls, claiming he was trying to “clear his head.” A call with his brother was abruptly cut short by a “loud bang” at 8:33 pm, coinciding with the time of the collision.

Defense Anticipates Arguing Accident

The prosecution argues that Bankhardt’s actions were a deliberate attempt to cause a fatal crash. However, the defense is expected to argue that the incident was a tragic accident, attributing it to emotional distress and the glare of oncoming headlights.

Jury Deliberation

The trial is expected to last at least two weeks. The jury will be presented with eyewitness accounts and dashcam footage to determine whether Bankhardt’s actions constituted attempted murder or a tragic, unintended outcome. He faces three counts of attempted murder related to the children and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.