Two Indian-Origin Men Sentenced for Fatal Crash in Leeds

Two men of Indian heritage have been sentenced to a combined total of 28 years in prison after their reckless driving led to the tragic deaths of a mother and her four-year-old daughter in Leeds, northern England. Hardeep Bhachu, aged 29, received a 12-year sentence while Jasskamal Riyat, aged 37, was handed a 16-year term. Both men were found guilty of causing the deaths of 27-year-old Justyna Hulboj and her daughter, Lena Czepczor, through dangerous driving. Bhachu admitted guilt to the charges, whereas Riyat was convicted after a trial at Leeds Crown Court, where evidence included footage of the incident. The court heard that Bhachu lost control of his vehicle, an Audi with significant horsepower, colliding with the mother and daughter as they were walking to school. The crash occurred in January 2023, sending shockwaves through the local community. Judge Ray Singh, presiding over the case, admonished the two men, stating, "A road is not a race track. A powerful car is not an invitation to test its limits on a public road." He emphasised the severe consequences of such reckless behaviour, highlighting the irreversible outcome of their actions. Detective Inspector Paul Conroy from West Yorkshire Police's Major Collision Enquiry Team expressed sorrow over the incident, stating, "A woman and her young daughter have died because of the actions of these men... The wait for justice has taken its toll." Bhachu was injured in the collision and subsequently arrested, quickly pleading guilty. Riyat, however, initially denied any wrongdoing. He was linked to the crash through extensive dashcam and CCTV footage, which showed him racing Bhachu's vehicle before the tragic event. The evidence revealed a conversation captured on Bhachu's dashcam, where he boasted about his car's capabilities. Riyat was also identified as the driver of a black BMW involved in the racing. In a poignant statement, the fiancé of Justyna and father of Lena shared the emotional toll the incident has taken on his life, saying, "Every day I feel a huge void after their departure... This nightmare will last for the rest of my life." Following their sentences, both men have also received driving bans for six years and will be required to pass an extended driving test if they wish to drive again.