Drink-drive mum six times over limit in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq crash

A 44-year-old woman has been charged after a serious crash in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq which left a motorcyclist critically injured.

Yoana Valentinova Gatt, a Bulgarian resident of St Paul’s Bay, faces charges of grievous bodily harm through negligence, reckless and dangerous driving, criminal damage, and driving under the influence following the incident on Sunday afternoon.

The collision occurred on Triq Tul il-Kosta, when Gatt’s Toyota Aygo struck the rear of a CF Moto motorcycle ridden by a 53-year-old Belgian man from Gżira.

Bystanders reportedly lifted the car to free the trapped rider before he was transported by ambulance to Mater Dei Hospital, where he was certified as seriously injured.

A breathalyser test at the scene revealed that Gatt’s alcohol level was 124.9 microgrammes per 100ml of breath, six times over the 22 microgramme legal limit. The court also heard that she had previously lost her driving licence in Bulgaria in 2014 after a failed breath test, though she currently holds a valid licence.

During the hearing, defence lawyer Nadya Fiott requested bail, citing Gatt’s responsibilities as a single mother with a young daughter and the risk of losing her job. The prosecution opposed the request, highlighting the severity of the charges and the potential for evidence interference.

In an emotional plea to the court, Gatt asked for “another chance” and promised full cooperation, breaking down in tears. Magistrate Joseph Gatt denied bail at this stage, deeming the application premature given the seriousness of the case.

An official inquiry into the incident has been opened and investigations remain ongoing.

#MaltaDaily