Two men jailed after 21-year-old killed in Birmingham city centre crash

Ryan, who was 21, was driving on the A38 (M) Aston Expressway just after midnight on Sunday, June 2.

His car was smashed into by an Audi, which caused it to hit another car. Tragically, despite the best efforts of paramedics, he was confirmed dead at the scene.

West Midlands Police's 'Serious Collision Investigation Unit' began immediate enquiries, and were able to determine that the Audi, driven by Saqlane Zafar, had been speeding through closed lanes along the expressway, causing traffic to swerve out of its way.

Analysis from their Forensic Collision Investigators subsequently revealed the Audi was travelling at 91mph when it crashed into Ryan’s car, when the speed limit was 40mph.

Further investigations revealed that objects had been thrown from the Audi over the barrier of the expressway, and officers later recovered a number of nitrous oxide cannisters from the road below. 

Investigators also found the Audi had been travelling together with a Nissan, being driven by Muhammad Hamza.

Following the collision, Hamza briefly stopped to pick up Zafar, and the pair fled the area despite the clear devastation at the scene. 

The Nissan then failed to stop for officers in Small Heath but following a pursuit, the two men were detained, and Zafar was found to still have the hire agreement in his name for the Audi involved in the crash.

The 28-year-old was arrested, charged, and subsequently pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. 

Hamza, also 28, was arrested and charged with dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice, and was found guilty of both following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court. 

On Friday, January 23, Zafar was sentenced to a total of 15 years in prison, while Hamza was jailed for four years and six months.

Sergeant Rich Evans, from SCIU, said: “This was a truly horrific collision that claimed the life of a young man, Ryan Sandhu, and devastated his family. Ryan had everything ahead of him, and no family should ever have to endure the grief and pain that his loved ones now face.

“The driver responsible, Saqlane Zafar, showed complete disregard for the safety of others. He was travelling at 91 miles per hour when he struck Ryan’s vehicle, and then fled the scene without even checking on him. His actions demonstrated a shocking lack of care and responsibility.

“I want to pay tribute to Ryan’s family for the incredible strength and dignity they have shown throughout this investigation.

“I would also like to thank the Officer in Charge, DC Gail Arnold, who has worked tirelessly and with great determination to ensure that Zafar was brought to justice. “Her commitment and professionalism have been vital in securing this outcome.

“This case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of dangerous driving. One reckless decision behind the wheel can destroy lives forever.”

In a new statement following the sentencing, Ryan’s heartbroken family said:

“This is a long-overdue affirmation of the truth, something we have carried with us since the moment our lives were shattered when we lost Ryan. While we are relieved and grateful that justice has finally been served, we cannot ignore the pain and insult we endured throughout this process, particularly as we endured the heartbreak of a not guilty plea that denied us the reality of what happened.

“The denial of responsibility for such a clear and devastating act was more than just a legal tactic. It was an insult to our family, to the memory of Ryan, and to common decency. It forced us to relive our worst moments, while those responsible denied accountability.

“With a guilty verdict and this sentencing, let us be reminded that accountability matters. Victims and their families will not be silenced.

“We are incredibly thankful to the prosecution team, police, and the jurors for their dedication and commitment to serving justice.

“Most importantly, we will never stop honouring Ryan’s life — a life that was stolen, but never forgotten.

“Justice was delayed, but it was not denied.”