Man Charged Following Fatal M4 Motorway Collision

An individual has been charged in connection with a motorway crash that resulted in the deaths of a mother and daughter. Cheryl Woods, 61, and Sarha Smith, 40, both residents of Caerphilly, Wales, passed away on 20 October 2023. They were involved in a multi-vehicle collision on the M4, specifically between Junction 17 (Chippenham) and Junction 18 (Bath). Firas Zeineddine, 45, from Bluebell Drive, Keynsham, near Bristol, faces two counts of death by dangerous driving. Wiltshire Police stated that he is scheduled to appear in court at a subsequent date. The incident involved a total of four cars and a heavy goods vehicle. Last year, the family of the women paid tribute to their “loving” mother and daughter. A statement released by the family read: “Cheryl Woods, cherished by those in her life, fulfilled the roles of a loving mother, doting grandmother, cherished sister, and a dear friend. Her selflessness was a defining trait, consistently prioritising her family’s well-being over her own, and she took immense pride in her Welsh heritage while nurturing a deep love for nature.” The statement continued: “Sarha Smith, in the footsteps of her mother, unselfishly devoted herself to her family’s needs ahead of her own. She was not only a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, but her absence leaves a void for those who relied on her radiant presence. Her legacy lives on through her six daughters, who will forever hold her memory close and strive to honour her with their efforts.” Two other individuals involved in the crash sustained minor injuries and received treatment from paramedics at the scene.