A 41-year-old Indian-origin delivery driver, Harinderpal Athwal, has been sentenced to 11 years and three months after a hit-and-run in Birmingham that killed a man and left his wife with life-altering injuries.
The incident occurred in December last year on Soho Road, West Midlands, when Athwal’s car crossed into oncoming traffic and mounted the pavement, striking a couple who were walking hand in hand. The male victim, 54, died at the scene; his 47-year-old wife was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
West Midlands Police said the vehicle showed no signs of braking before it stopped after colliding with a parked car. CCTV footage later captured Athwal reversing away from the injured man, then putting the car back into gear, striking him again and leaving the scene. Officers arrested Athwal within 24 hours; he later told police he did not know anyone had died.
Athwal, who worked as an Uber Eats delivery driver, pleaded guilty at Birmingham Crown Court to multiple offences, including causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, causing death while driving disqualified, causing death while driving without a licence or insurance, failing to stop, and failing to report an accident. In addition to his prison term, he has been disqualified from driving for 20 years and will need to pass an extended driving test to regain a licence.
Detective Sergeant Julie Lyman of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit described the crash as a tragic, senseless event that destroyed a family’s life. She said Athwal’s decision to drive away and not report the collision was “cruel and heartless” and showed disregard for the victims.
In a statement released through police, the female victim described the profound effect of her husband’s death on her and their children, saying she feels lost without the partner who provided emotional support, handled finances and kept the family stable. She said the crash has destroyed her health, independence and future.
Police said a thorough investigation led to Athwal’s arrest and conviction. The sentence aims to hold him accountable and offers the bereaved family some measure of justice, though it cannot undo their loss.
