A BMW driver accused of racing an Audi TT at speeds of up to 89 mph before it crashed and killed a mother and her daughter has denied causing death by dangerous driving.
Jasskamal Riyat, 37, was allegedly driving his BMW M135i alongside an Audi TT on Scott Hall Road in Leeds, West Yorkshire, on January 16, 2023. The Audi, driven by Hardeep Bhachu, lost control and mounted the pavement, striking Justyna Hulboj, 27, and her four-year-old daughter, Lena Czepczor, as they walked to nursery. Both victims died at the scene.
Bhachu has since admitted two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and is awaiting sentencing. Riyat, however, denies the same charges, with prosecutors arguing that his actions contributed to the fatal incident.
During the trial at Leeds Crown Court, prosecutor Carmel Pearson told the jury that Riyat, despite not being the driver of the car that directly caused the deaths, bears responsibility. "Just because he [Riyat] did not crash, this does not mean he escapes responsibility for these deaths," Pearson stated. "He was also driving dangerously on that road. It's the prosecution's case that they both drove dangerously at speeds that outstripped other road users, weaving in and out of traffic close to each other and other cars."
The prosecution presented footage from inside Riyat's car, which appeared to show him and Bhachu communicating at traffic lights and celebrating the power of their vehicles. Riyat was heard laughing as the Audi accelerated away, saying, "He is gone."
The alleged race began from Potternewton Lane roundabout, with the Audi TT reaching nearly 90 mph in a 40 mph zone shortly before it collided with the pedestrians near a car dealership. Riyat reportedly continued driving and filmed the crashed car as he passed the scene.
Bhachu and Riyat were not charged until May 2023. Bhachu requested to be taken into custody, stating he wanted to "take responsibility" and begin his sentence. Riyat maintains his not guilty plea. The trial is expected to conclude by the end of the week.
