A tragic hit-and-run incident in Birmingham has culminated in the sentencing of Kashif Khan, who fled to Pakistan after causing the death of cyclist Andell Goulbourne. The heartbreaking event unfolded on July 30, 2020, when Goulbourne, a 59-year-old father of three, was struck by Khan’s grey BMW M135i while riding his bicycle in Saltley, Birmingham.
According to harrowing CCTV footage, Goulbourne was thrown approximately 100 feet into the air upon impact, highlighting the severity of the collision. The incident occurred around 11 PM on Washwood Heath Road, where Khan was reportedly driving at speeds between 61 to 64 mph, significantly exceeding the 30 mph limit.
Emergency services pronounced Goulbourne dead at the scene, while Khan managed to evade capture by fleeing the country shortly after the incident. Within 20 hours of the crash, he purchased a one-way ticket to Dubai before relocating to Pakistan, where he established a new life, got married, and fathered two children.
During Khan’s four-year absence, the West Midlands Police launched an extensive investigation. They utilized forensic evidence, including fingerprints found on a drinks can inside the vehicle and a receipt, to identify him as the driver responsible for the fatal crash. In a bid to locate Khan, Crimestoppers issued a public appeal, offering a £5,000 reward for information regarding his whereabouts.
On July 2, 2024, Khan made the decision to return to the UK, where he was promptly arrested. He subsequently pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and was sentenced to six years in prison at Birmingham Crown Court. Alongside his prison term, he received a driving ban lasting nearly 13 years.
In emotional victim impact statements read at the court hearing, Goulbourne’s family expressed the profound grief and loss they have endured since his passing. They described how his death created a “huge void” in their lives, stating, “Our lives changed forever upon hearing the news that our dad had passed away, and losing such a significant loved one left us in total disbelief with feelings of unbearable grief.”
The family’s statement continued, “We will always feel the pain of losing someone so treasured as our dad. However, here we are today when despite our anguish we stand to be given some sort of justice and closure.”
Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes of West Midlands Police commented on the case, expressing hope that the sentencing would provide some measure of comfort to Goulbourne’s family. He stated, “We can only hope that this sentence brings some comfort to Mr. Goulbourne’s family.”
This case highlights the serious consequences of reckless driving and the impact such tragedies have on families and communities. The justice served in this instance may not bring back Goulbourne, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the accountability of drivers.
