Hit-and-run driver who killed cyclist at double speed limit is jailed

A speeding driver who killed a cyclist in a hit-and-run while doing more than double the limit has been jailed.

Syed Ahmed, 32, was driving at 65mph on a 30mph road in Manor Park, east London, moments before he hit ‘funny and caring’ Jay Kristiansen.

The 31-year-old was left with catastrophic injuries after being thrown from his bike, and died the following day in hospital.

Ahmed, from Newham, did not stop after hitting the cyclist and fled the scene before abandoning his vehicle.

He eventually handed himself in to police around 33 hours after the incident in July 2020.

Ahmed was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving and has now been jailed for four years – two of which he will serve on licence.

Following his sentencing, Mr Kristiansen’s family wrote in a statement: ‘Jay was a funny and caring young man.

‘In particular he had a great kindness and love of animals. He still had so many hope and dreams, including having a family of his own.

‘We will not be able to see him realise those dreams. Today we finally got justice for our cheeky little chappie. We will miss you forever, life isn’t the same without you here.’

Acting Detective Sergeant Liz Carrey said Ahmed had shown no regard for public safety.

She said: ‘Ahmed’s reckless actions that day led to the death of a young man, which has devastated his family and friends.

‘I would like to recognise their dignity throughout the trial, which has been incredibly difficult for them.

‘Our investigation showed that Ahmed had no regard for public safety, with CCTV showing that he had been driving at over 65mph in a 30mph zone.

‘After the collision he drove away, leaving Mr Kristiansen with catastrophic injuries, relying on other members of the public to call for help.

‘Time and time again we see the devastating impact of dangerous driving and it is right that Ahmed has received a custodial sentence.

‘I hope that the sentence handed down serves as a warning of the potential consequences of driving recklessly.’

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