Man denies toddler's road death

Joshua Berrill's aunt was also hurt in the accident

A toddler died from "horrendous injuries" after being struck by a sports car and becoming trapped underneath, a court has heard.

Joshua Berrill, aged two, died after he was struck by the Toyota MR2 in Alum Rock, Birmingham, in August 2004.

Mohammed Hussain, 22, of Saltley, Birmingham, denies a charge of manslaughter and an alternative charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

The court heard Joshua was dragged for up to 400 yards (366 metres).

Prosecuting, David Jones said Hussain, of Highfield Road, knew the boy was trapped underneath the car.

He knew the child was still trapped underneath the car and he continued to drive David Jones, prosecuting

Joshua had been out walking with his 13-year-old aunt Millie Robinson, along Burney Lane, when he ran out into the road.

Miss Robinson tried to rescue him but was hit by the car herself.

The car slowed down but did not stop, Mr Jones said.

"He knew he had hit the child, he knew the child was still trapped underneath the car and he continued to drive," he said.

A post-mortem examination showed swelling on Joshua's brain and blood in his abdomen indicated his heart was still beating after the initial impact.

Clothes scattered

Mr Jones said he was killed by the injuries he sustained as he was dragged along the road.

The car was later found just over a mile from where Joshua's body had been released from under it.

The boy's clothes had been ripped off and were found scattered along the route.

Mr Jones said Hussain admitted being in the car but denied he was driving.

The trial has been adjourned for the day.