Gold Coast man Alexander James Vadeikis, 21, has faced court after being hit with upgraded charges over a deadly alleged street race that killed a pedestrian in Southport last year.
According to the Gold Coast Bulletin, Vadeikis is now charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death while taking part in an unlawful race — a criminal offence carrying up to 20 years’ imprisonment — as well as operate or interfere with the operation of a vehicle dangerously in any public place while excessively speeding or taking part in an unlawful race or unlawful speed trial.
The charges relate to a March 22, 2024 incident in which Vadeikis and co-accused David Saji Mathew, 22, were allegedly street racing when Mathew struck and killed 21-year-old student Daimler Kyle Bermudo as he crossed Smith Street.
Vadeikis appeared in Southport Magistrates Court on Thursday. His lawyer, Alex Somers, told the court a partial brief of evidence had been received and requested an adjournment.
The matter is scheduled to return on July 24. The most serious charge must be heard in the Southport District Court.
No pleas have been entered by either Vadeikis or Mathew. Vadeikis was originally charged with a lesser offence but that charge was withdrawn earlier this month to allow for the more serious prosecution.
Bermudo, an aspiring nurse, was remembered by his parents as a devoted and selfless young man, just months away from graduating from Griffith University.
