‘Maniac’ Driver Jailed for Killing Aspiring Doctor on Pedestrian Crossing
A 26-year-old man has been sentenced to more than 15 years in prison after mowing down and killing an aspiring doctor while driving at more than double the speed limit. Regan Kemp was recorded on a mobile phone accelerating to 80mph on a 30mph road in Leeds just moments before he struck 19-year-old Ashton Kitchen-White.
Chilling Footage and a Fatal Impact
The incident occurred on May 16 this year on Beeston Park Ring Road in the Middleton area of Leeds. Chilling mobile phone footage from a backseat passenger captured the Ford Focus ST’s wheels screeching and engine revving as Kemp drove dangerously. A passenger can be heard telling Kemp, “that’s crazy fam,” as the vehicle rapidly accelerated.
Ashton Kitchen-White was on a pelican crossing when he was hit by Kemp’s car. Experts calculated the vehicle was travelling at 80mph at the point of impact. The Crown stated that the teenager suffered catastrophic injuries and had “no chance” of survival; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Family’s Agony and a Killer’s Denial
During the sentencing at Leeds Crown Court, the victim’s heartbroken parents described how their “souls have been ripped out.” His mother, Hayley White, said, “I can't describe the devastation of the loss of my sweet boy. My life is over - my heart and soul died with him.”
His father, Andrew Kitchen, added, “As his dad I was meant to protect him, and I could not do that. It will continue to haunt me until the day I die.” Ashton was preparing to begin studying medicine at Leeds University at the time of his death.
Despite the overwhelming evidence, including the phone footage and CCTV showing him exiting the driver's door, Kemp denied being the driver and attempted to blame a friend. He never showed any remorse for his actions.
Substantial Sentence for a Repeat Offender
Following a four-day trial, the jury took less than two hours to unanimously find Kemp guilty of causing death by dangerous driving. Judge Neil Clark sentenced him to 15 years and six months in jail and banned him from driving for more than 17 years.
The judge told Kemp, “You sought to blame an obviously innocent man... Never once have you expressed any remorse.” Kemp has a history of previous driving offences, including dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice.
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle of West Yorkshire Police said the case was a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences of speeding and reckless behaviour on the roads.
