Van driver jailed after killing London student
Van Driver Sentenced After Fatal Collision Near London University
A 27-year-old man from Southampton has been sentenced to eight years in prison for causing the death of a 20-year-old student during a van accident near a London university campus. The incident occurred on 18 March last year when the vehicle struck gates, leading to a dramatic chain of events.
Details of the Incident
The Old Bailey learned that the victim, Aalia Mahomed, was seated on a bench close to King’s College London’s campus in the Strand. Christopher Jackson, who had no prior experience with electric vehicles, was tasked with transporting a van from Bush House in Aldwych. The court was informed the van collided with gates, vaulted over a flower bed, and briefly lifted off the ground before striking Ms. Mahomed.
The vehicle came to rest near the wall of St Mary-Le-Strand church, with the crash lasting approximately six seconds. Forensic analysis by the Metropolitan Police confirmed no mechanical faults in the van, though unintended acceleration and Jackson’s panic were cited as primary factors.
“When you lose a child, you don’t just lose a presence in your life—you lose a part of yourself,” said Samira Shafi, Aalia’s mother. “Our beautiful Aalia had her entire life ahead of her, cut short at 20 with no warning and no goodbyes… the loss to our family is immense.”
Judge’s Verdict and Remarks
During sentencing, Judge Philip Katz KC emphasized Jackson’s inexperience, stating, “You had no knowledge of driving vans, let alone electric ones,” and noted the “considerable irresponsibility” involved. The judge highlighted Jackson’s actions, remarking, “You were pressing or pumping the accelerator, believing it was the brake.”
Jackson had previously admitted to two charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, which led to life-altering harm for two other King’s College London students. His defense argued the crash was a “tragic accident” with no involvement of excessive speed or substance use, but the judge dismissed this, stressing the importance of safety checks before driving.
Sentence and Consequences
Jackson received three years for each of the two serious injury charges, with both sentences to be served concurrently. He will serve two-thirds of his time before eligibility for release on licence. Additionally, he has been barred from driving and must pass a retest to resume behind the wheel.
Despite offering no comment during police interviews, the judge noted Jackson’s “prompt and sincere remorse.” The case remains under review, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
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