Van Driver Jailed for Eight Years in Aalia Mahomed Death

Christopher Jackson, 27, of Southampton, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for causing the death of 20-year-aged Aalia Mahomed. The incident occurred on March 18, 2025, on The Strand in central London, after Jackson drove a van into a metal gate, subsequently hitting Mahomed as she sat on a bench.

Details of the Incident

Aalia Mahomed, a second-year physics and philosophy student at King’s College London, died at the scene of the collision. According to reports, Jackson was instructed by his employer to collect a Ford Transit van from Bush House, Aldwych. While leaving the site, he drove at speed towards iron gates leading to a pedestrian zone.

The impact of the collision with the gates caused them to strike two pedestrians, Irem Yoldas and Yamin Belmessous, resulting in serious, life-changing injuries The Independent. The van then mounted a flower bed before hitting Mahomed, who was seated on a bench.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Jackson pleaded guilty in February to causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving BBC News. He was sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Impact on Family and Friends

Aalia Mahomed was described by her mother, Samira Shafi, as “the most amazing daughter.” Shafi stated in a victim impact statement that losing her daughter had left an “unbearable void” and that they shared a close, sister-like bond BBC News.

Investigation and Response

Emergency services were called to The Strand at 11:41hrs on March 18, 2025. The Metropolitan Police investigated the incident, leading to Jackson’s arrest and subsequent conviction Standard.