London: Renowned British rapper Justin Clarke-Samuel has admitted to the police that his car struck a Nepali youth, resulting in the latter’s death, confirmed the London Metropolitan Police. Clarke-Samuel failed to stop his vehicle after hitting 20-year-old Yubin Tamang on Redbridge Lane East, Ilford at 23:33 hrs on October 18, Saturday.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Clarke-Samuel was driving in excess of 60 miles per hour when the speed limit was 30 miles per hour, and hit Yubin who was crossing the road. Yubin died in hospital from his injuries two days later, said the Metropolitan Police on its official website.
Detective Inspector of the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, Mark Braithwaite, stated that the guilty pleas mark a step toward justice for Yubin’s family. He emphasized the severe consequences of ignoring speed limits and drink laws, highlighting the diligence of the investigation team led by Detective Sergeant Faye Cook.
On the night of the collision, officers identified Clarke-Samuel as the registered owner of the vehicle involved, captured on CCTV. The car, a BMW, was found near Clarke-Samuel’s home with significant damage. Clarke-Samuel was arrested on October 19, Sunday, on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop, and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.
Initially charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving, the charge was amended following Yubin’s death. Prosecutors added further counts of dangerous driving during a court hearing at the Old Bailey on November 24, Monday. Clarke-Samuel was later charged with causing death by careless driving while over the alcohol limit on December 4, Thursday. Sentencing is scheduled for February 12 Thursday.