Van driver jailed after killing London student
Van Driver Sentenced for Fatal Accident Near London University
A 27-year-old man from Southampton has received an eight-year prison term following a van collision that resulted in the death of a 20-year-old student near King’s College London’s campus. The incident occurred in The Strand, where the vehicle struck gates, climbed a flower bed, and briefly lifted off the ground before fatally hitting the victim.
Incident Details and Driver’s Background
Christopher Jackson, the van operator, had admitted to causing Aalia Mahomed’s death through reckless driving on 18 March last year. The court was informed that the student, who was studying physics and philosophy in her second year, was seated on a bench close to the university’s grounds. Jackson had been assigned to transport the van from Bush House in Aldwych but lacked prior experience with electric vehicles.
Judge’s Remarks on the Case
During sentencing, Judge Philip Katz KC highlighted Jackson’s inexperience, stating,
“He had no experience of driving vans, let alone electric vans,”
and noted the “significant level of irresponsibility” involved. The judge emphasized that the driver had “pumped on the accelerator, thinking it was the brake,” which contributed to the crash’s severity.
The crash lasted approximately six seconds before the van halted near the wall of St Mary-Le-Strand church. Jackson had offered no explanation during his initial police interview but expressed immediate remorse, according to the judge. His sentence included three years for causing serious injuries to two other KCL students, Irem Yoldas and Yamin Belmessous, who sustained life-altering harm.
Family Impact and Legal Context
Aalia’s mother, Samira Shafi, described the tragedy in a statement:
“When you lose a child, you don’t just lose a presence in your life—you lose a part of yourself. Our beautiful Aalia had her entire future ahead of her, cut short at 20 with no warning or farewells… the loss affects the wider family deeply.”
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the van had no mechanical issues, attributing the crash to “unintended acceleration worsened by Jackson’s panic.”
Defense counsel Jessica Clarke had earlier argued the incident was a “tragic accident” without excessive speed or substance influence. However, the judge countered, asserting that a cautious driver would verify safety before starting the journey. Jackson will serve two-thirds of his sentence before release on licence and must pass a retest to regain driving privileges.
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This breaking story is being updated as new information emerges. To follow developments, download the Sky News app, join our WhatsApp channel, or subscribe to the YouTube channel. The case underscores the dangers of unprepared driving and the lasting impact on families and communities.
