A BMW driver was allegedly racing an Audi TT that ploughed into a mother and daughter, killing them both as they walked to nursery, a court has heard in harrowing detail. The tragic incident occurred on January 16, 2023, in Leeds, West Yorkshire, when the vehicles were engaged in a high-speed competition that ended in catastrophe.
Details of the Fatal Collision
Jasskamal Riyat, aged 35, was driving a grey BMW 135i when he purportedly chose to race Hardeep Bhachu, 27, who was behind the wheel of a white Audi TT RS. The court was informed that the Audi was travelling at a staggering 89mph before it lost control, mounted the kerb, and collided with Justyna Hulboj, 27, and her four-year-old daughter, Lena Czepczor, who were walking along Scott Hall Road at approximately 8.30am on their way to nursery.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
Following the impact, the Audi smashed into a wall near a Jaguar-Land Rover garage. Bhachu has previously admitted two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and remains on remand awaiting sentencing. In contrast, Riyat has denied the same offences and is currently standing trial at Leeds Crown Court, with proceedings expected to last around four days.
Evidence Presented in Court
Prosecutors played dashcam footage from various commuters and video found on Riyat's phone to the jury. In the footage, Riyat was heard saying, 'Watch this guy. He is gone,' and appeared to laugh as the Audi accelerated away at extreme speed. The engine of the Audi could be heard roaring as it sped off, underscoring the reckless nature of the race.
Prosecution's Argument
Prosecutor Carmel Pearson emphasised that although Riyat did not crash his car, he is equally responsible for the deaths. She argued that the pair were 'egging each other on' and 'racing at high speed,' with the cars beginning their competition from the Potternewton Lane roundabout and heading down towards Leeds. Pearson told the jury, 'Just because this defendant did not crash his car, it does not mean he escapes responsibility. The two men are responsible.'
She detailed how the drivers were jointly navigating in and out of traffic, braking heavily, and showing no regard for other road users or vulnerable pedestrians. At one point, they even stopped alongside each other to speak through their windows and 'discuss the Audi's power,' further illustrating their collaborative and dangerous behaviour.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
The case highlights severe issues of dangerous driving and racing on public roads, with prosecutors stressing that such actions have devastating consequences. The loss of Justyna Hulboj and her young daughter has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising concerns about road safety and the need for stricter enforcement against reckless driving.
As the trial continues, the jury will weigh the evidence to determine Riyat's culpability in this tragic event that has left a family shattered and a community mourning.
