Over a year has passed since the tragic death of Mitch East, a 28-year-old lawyer who was struck by a vehicle in the early hours of March 17, 2024, in Tamarama, Sydney. The individual believed to be responsible, Zisi Kokotatsios, 65, has yet to enter pleas regarding the charges against him, which include failing to stop and assist after an accident causing death, dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and driving while using a mobile phone.
According to police, Kokotatsios was illegally using his mobile phone while driving to pick up a passenger when the incident occurred around 4am. Emergency services responded promptly, but despite their efforts to revive East, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Kokotatsios has faced serious legal consequences following this event, but more than a year since the accident, he remains on bail with strict reporting conditions and has not yet formally entered a plea in court. When he appeared at the Central Local Court recently, the matter was adjourned for a case conference scheduled for July. During the hearing, Kokotatsios remained silent and was accompanied by his lawyer.
Mitch East, a graduate of Harvard Law School in 2022, worked at the respected Sydney law firm Arnold Bloch Leibler. His career began in his native New Zealand, and he was remembered fondly by colleagues as a highly talented and popular lawyer, whose passing left a significant void in the firm. An email sent to the staff following his death reflected the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew him.
The legal proceedings surrounding this case continue, leaving many to await further developments in the courts.