A BMW motorist who struck and killed a pedestrian before callously fleeing the scene has been handed a nine-year prison sentence following a tragic incident in Westminster.
Mohammed Zafran, 23, lost his life after being hit by a black BMW 1 Series on the A5 Edgware Road in the early hours of September 3rd last year. The vehicle failed to stop at the scene, leaving Zafran with catastrophic injuries.
The Fatal Incident
Emergency services rushed to the scene near the junction with Cricklewood Lane at approximately 1:40 AM. Despite their efforts, Mr. Zafran was pronounced dead at the location. The Metropolitan Police launched an immediate investigation into the hit-and-run.
Investigation and Arrest
Through meticulous detective work, officers identified and located the vehicle involved. The driver, Artur Nowak, 27, of no fixed address, was subsequently arrested and charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
Nowak pleaded guilty to the charges at the Old Bailey and was sentenced on Friday, 13th October. In addition to his nine-year custodial sentence, he was banned from driving for ten years and must take an extended retest.
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional victim impact statement, Mr. Zafran's family described their unimaginable loss: "The pain of losing Mohammed is a life sentence for us. He was a beloved son and brother, and his future was stolen in a moment of sheer recklessness."
Detective Sergeant Paul Jackson of the Met's Serious Collision Investigation Unit stated: "This was a devastating incident made worse by Nowak's decision to flee. Our thoughts remain with Mohammed's family, and we hope this sentencing brings them some measure of closure."
The case serves as a stark reminder of the fatal consequences of dangerous driving and the severe penalties for leaving the scene of a fatal collision.
