Wolverhampton man charged with murder of hit and run victim appears in court
A man charged with murder concerning the hit and run death of Wolverhampton man Ryan Griffiths has appeared in court.
The 29-year-old was struck by a vehicle on Burleigh Road, Wolverhampton, just before 9pm on Wednesday, August 21, and died two days later.
Aden Wright, of Griffiths Drive, Wolverhampton, was arrested on Monday and charged with murder, appearing before Wolverhampton Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
At a preliminary hearing on Thursday at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Wright appeared via video link from HMP Birmingham where he is currently on remand.
Wright, 26, only spoke to confirm his name and was told the next time he appears in court he will have to plead either guilty or not guilty.
The court heard if a trial was needed it would take two weeks if there was one defendant but three weeks if another person is charged.
Judge Michael Chambers told Wright: "You will next appear before this court on Tuesday, October 22. On that occasion you will be asked whether you wish to plead guilty or not guilty to the charge.
"In the meantime you must remain in custody."
They said: “Ryan was a loving and devoted son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew and cousin.
“He had a heart of gold and a lot of loving friends. Everyone is devastated by his sad loss and he will be sadly missed.”