Two men from Birmingham have been sentenced to prison after a fatal crash on the A38 (M) Aston Expressway resulted in the death of 21-year-old Ryan Sandhu. The tragic incident occurred just after midnight on Sunday, 2 June 2024.
Ryan Sandhu was driving along the Aston Expressway when an out-of-control Audi, driven by 28-year-old Saqlane Zafar, collided with his vehicle at a speed of 91mph. This speed was more than double the 40mph speed limit on the road. The impact forced Ryan’s car into another vehicle. Despite the efforts of paramedics at the scene, Ryan was pronounced dead.
The Serious Collision Investigation Unit in Birmingham revealed that Zafar was speeding through closed lanes, causing other drivers to swerve to avoid a collision. During the reckless driving spree, nitrous oxide canisters were found scattered from Zafar’s car.
Zafar was not alone during the incident. His friend, Muhammad Hamza, also 28, was driving a Nissan alongside him, acting as a getaway driver. After the crash, Hamza briefly stopped to pick up Zafar before they both fled the scene, leaving behind destruction and heartbreak.
The pair then led police on a dangerous chase through Small Heath, refusing to stop until officers finally apprehended them.
Saqlane Zafar pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Muhammad Hamza was convicted of dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice and received a prison sentence of four years and six months.
This high-speed crash has deeply affected the Birmingham community and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving on local roads.
Originally published by UKNIP.
