The wife of Lufthansa airline’s CEO, Vivian Alexandra Spohr, is under investigation for vehicular homicide after a tragic accident in Sardinia, Italy. Spohr, 51, was driving a BMW X5 when she hit 24-year-old Gaia Costa at a pedestrian crosswalk in the upscale resort town of Porto Cervo.
According to local reports, Spohr continued driving until bystanders flagged her down. The shock of the incident reportedly caused her to faint. Paramedics attempted to revive Costa for 20 minutes, but the young woman succumbed to severe head injuries.
Spohr, who is married to Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr, was identified as being under investigation for involuntary manslaughter. However, she had already returned to her home in Berlin, Germany, by the time the investigation was announced.
Despite leaving Italy, Spohr was not legally required to stay on the island during the investigation. Her attorney, Angelo Merlini, stated that she has pledged to fully cooperate with the authorities.
Merlini conveyed Spohr’s deep regret and dismay over the incident, stating, “Vivian Spohr, who was involved in the tragic death, expresses her dismay and deep regret over this very serious accident.” He added that she is fully aware that no action can truly compensate for such a significant loss, but she will do what she can to mitigate the consequences.
Spohr tested negative for alcohol and drugs, according to reports. Investigators are currently examining surveillance footage and Spohr’s phone records to determine if she was distracted at the time of the accident.
Porto Cervo, where the accident occurred, is a luxury resort area known for attracting high-profile visitors during the summer season. Neither Italian prosecutors nor Lufthansa have responded to requests for comment on the incident. Carsten Spohr and his wife have two daughters.