The driver suspected of causing the fatal bicycle accident that killed Polish MP Łukasz Litewka has been released from arrest after posting 40,000 zł bail.
MP Łukasz Litewka Dies in Accident
Łukasz Litewka, a 36-year-old MP from the Lewica (Left) party in Sosnowiec, died last Thursday afternoon after being struck by a Mitsubishi Colt vehicle.
The politician was cycling on Kazimierzowska Street in Dąbrowa Górnicza at the time of the accident.
Driver Detained, Faces Charges
The driver of the vehicle was detained following the accident and charged with causing a traffic accident resulting in death, a crime punishable by six months to eight years imprisonment.
Prosecutors allege the driver negligently violated traffic regulations and unintentionally caused the MP’s death.
Initial Arrest and Bail Conditions
Following a request from the Dąbrowa Górnicza District Prosecutor’s Office, the local court ordered the suspect’s arrest for three months on Saturday.
However, the court stipulated the suspect could be released upon posting bail of 40,000 zł. After the bail was paid, the arrest was lifted, and the suspect is now under police supervision with a travel ban.
Prosecution Appeals Arrest Release
The Prosecutor’s Office has appealed the court’s decision, arguing that only continued detention will adequately secure the investigation, which is in its early stages.
The appeal will be heard by the Sosnowiec Regional Court, with a hearing date yet to be scheduled.
Police Address Disinformation Campaign
Śląskie police issued a statement on Tuesday addressing false information circulating online regarding the death of MP Litewka.
Police emphasized that spreading disinformation hinders the investigation and misleads the public, and debunked several false claims.
Debunked Rumors: Partner’s Arrest, Officer Involvement
Police specifically denied reports of the MP’s partner being detained and claims that the driver was a police officer.
Authorities confirmed the Mitsubishi driver was not a police officer and no one else was arrested in connection with the case.
Investigation Indicates No Intent
Preliminary findings suggest the incident was not intentional, and the driver has been charged with negligent homicide.
The investigation is ongoing, led by the prosecutor’s office, and authorities are limiting information release to protect the investigation.
Information Control and Online Sensationalism
Police stated they are not releasing additional information, including details that could lead to the suspect’s identification, due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Authorities warned that online content is often created to generate clicks and that the most sensational reports are frequently false.
Call for Responsible Reporting and Verification
Police urged individuals to exercise restraint when expressing opinions based on unverified sources and encouraged responsible information sharing.
They emphasized the importance of relying on official statements and recognizing the responsibility associated with publishing information.
Investigation Focus: Witnesses and Expert Opinions
Prosecutor Bartosz Kilian stated on Tuesday that the investigation is currently focused on expanding the circle of witnesses, including those who interacted with the victim or suspect on the day of the incident.
Investigators are also seeking additional expert opinions, awaiting results from forensic analysis of electronic devices, and awaiting the final autopsy and toxicology reports.
State Funeral for MP Litewka
The funeral of MP Łukasz Litewka will be held on Wednesday and will be a state funeral.
