Tragedy Strikes as Teenager Killed in Reckless Street Race
In a heart-wrenching incident earlier this year, 16-year-old Alisha Goup lost her life as two speeding BMWs turned the streets into a dangerous race track. The incident unfolded tragically in February when reckless driver Omar Choudhury, 22, lost control of his vehicle, colliding with Alisha as she was walking to college.
Choudhury, traveling at an alarming speed of 66mph, more than double the limit, was being pursued by 24-year-old Hamidur Rahman. The two had engaged in a senseless race through the residential streets of Oldham, Greater Manchester, driven by what has been described as a “petty disagreement.”
Rahman’s animosity towards Choudhury stemmed from the latter’s disclosure of a disapproved relationship to Rahman’s family. As the race escalated towards the town center, Choudhury attempted a perilous overtake on the wrong side of the road.
This reckless maneuver led to a collision with a white Ford Fiesta before Choudhury’s blue BMW 3 series mounted the sidewalk, tragically ending Alisha’s life. The police have since released footage of the events leading up to this horrific incident, shedding light on the drivers’ irresponsible and catastrophic actions.
The footage captures the shocking sight of Choudhury being pursued by Rahman, narrowly avoiding collisions with other vehicles on the road. In the midst of the chase, Choudhury even reverses down a busy stretch, with an unidentified individual on foot seemingly chasing after him.
Moments later, Rahman also reverses to follow, causing other motorists to swerve away from the unfolding chaos. Unfortunately, Choudhury’s attempt to escape ended in tragedy as he lost control, collided with another car, and struck Alisha.
In a shocking display of callousness, Choudhury tried to flee the scene. However, the extensive damage to his vehicle thwarted his escape, leading to his apprehension by members of the public until the police arrived.
The consequences of their actions caught up with them as both Choudhury and Rahman were charged with causing death by dangerous driving. Choudhury was found guilty and received a 14-year prison sentence.
Rahman, who had turned off the road just seconds before the fatal crash, was also deemed culpable and received the same 14-year sentence due to his significant involvement in Alisha’s tragic demise.
Alisha’s grieving family described this period as the most challenging time of their lives. Her younger brother, in an emotional testimony, expressed the deep bond he shared with his sister and the immense loss he feels.
Her uncle, Dilip, highlighted the enduring pain their family endures, emphasizing that no words can fully convey their heartbreak. As they face an uncertain future, they hope that no other family has to endure the same tragedy.
In addition to their prison sentences, Choudhury and Rahman were both banned from driving for 12 years. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving on our streets.