Hassan Jhangur's negligent driving resulted in a tragic accident, claiming the life of Chris Marriott, a kind-hearted bystander, during a family wedding celebration.
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In a case that has drawn significant public attention, 25-year-old Hassan Jhangur was sentenced for the murder of Chris Marriott, a devoted father and good Samaritan. This tragic incident unfolded during a wedding reception, resulting in severe consequences for multiple individuals.
The event underscores how quickly a moment can turn deadly.
On December 27, Jhangur arrived at his sister’s wedding reception, where tensions had escalated between two families. In a moment of extreme recklessness, he drove his Seat Ibiza into a crowd, striking five people, including Marriott, who was attempting to assist Jhangur’s sister, Nafeesa, after she fell in the street.
The tragic events of the wedding reception
As Jhangur approached the scene, he first collided with Riasat Khan, the father of the rival family. Witnesses reported that the impact was severe enough to throw Khan onto the hood of the car.
Following this, Jhangur’s vehicle careened into a group of four individuals, which included Marriott, a 46-year-old father of two, and midwife Alison Norris, both of whom were out for a post-holiday stroll.
Good Samaritan caught in the crossfire
Chris Marriott was known for his selflessness, often stepping in to help others in need. On that fateful day, he noticed Nafeesa Jhangur lying on the ground and instinctively rushed to her aid. This noble act, however, placed him directly in the path of Jhangur’s erratic driving. Marriott’s attempt to assist ultimately cost him his life, as he succumbed to the injuries sustained from the collision.
In addition to Marriott, three others were injured in the incident, including Jhangur’s own mother and sister, illustrating the widespread impact of his actions. The courtroom proceedings revealed the harrowing aftermath of the crash, with families devastated by the sudden loss and injuries.
A violent escalation
After the initial collision, Jhangur exited his vehicle while the engine continued to run. In a shocking twist, he then attacked his brother-in-law, Hasan Khan, with a knife, inflicting multiple stab wounds. This brutal escalation highlighted not only the recklessness of Jhangur’s driving but also his violent tendencies, as he later expressed to police officers, “That’s why you don’t mess with the Jhangurs.”
Legal proceedings and verdict
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Jhangur’s actions constituted murder, as he had intended to cause significant harm, even if Marriott was not his intended target. The law allows for the transfer of intent, meaning that the recklessness exhibited towards one group could inadvertently harm another. The jury found Jhangur guilty of murder, alongside other charges including causing grievous bodily harm.
Jhangur’s father, Mohammed, was also implicated in the case, found guilty of attempting to obstruct justice by hiding the weapon used in the assault. This family’s involvement in the incident further complicated the legal landscape, showcasing a disturbing pattern of behavior within the household.
As the case reached its conclusion, the emotional toll on the victims’ families was evident. Mr. Marriott is remembered not only for his tragic end but for his unwavering commitment to helping others, a stark contrast to the violence that unfolded that day. The sentencing of Hassan Jhangur serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the far-reaching consequences of reckless behavior.
