Barancan Nurcin, a 22-year-old from High Road, Tottenham, has been sentenced after causing a fatal crash on the M25 in February while driving a stolen van against oncoming traffic. The court heard that Nurcin, who was on court bail and a suspended sentence for previous violent offences, was attempting to evade police when the collision occurred.
Previous Offenses and Banned from Driving
Nurcin had a history of violent behaviour, including two unprovoked attacks. In April 2021, he assaulted a man in a Chingford shop, striking him from behind. In a separate incident in February 2023, Nurcin attacked another individual in Willoughby Road, Wood Green, causing a bleed on the brain. For the latter offence, he received a 15-month sentence suspended for two years in May 2023. Additionally, Nurcin was banned from driving due to heavy cannabis use and had a prior conviction for drug possession.
Fatal Crash and Police Evasion
On the night of the fatal crash, Nurcin drove to Northampton and was flagged for driving a stolen vehicle on his way back. Prosecutor Mark Fenhalls KC suggested the trip might have been related to serious criminal activity. He added that it is well-known among criminals that driving against oncoming traffic is a tactic to evade police, who cannot chase suspects the wrong way on a busy road due to public safety concerns.
The Incident
The crash resulted in the deaths of Mrs. Hawes and Mr. Dek. After causing the deadly pile-up, Nurcin left the mortally wounded Mr. Dek in the van and made no attempt to help other casualties. He was later found on top of a nearby bridge with a broken pelvis.
Court Proceedings
At St Albans Crown Court on Friday (June 21), CCTV footage of Nurcin’s previous attacks was shown. Detective Sergeant Ben Heath testified about the dangers of police pursuits involving oncoming traffic.
Defence barrister Edward McKiernan argued that Nurcin had been subjected to a “character assassination” and claimed there was insufficient evidence to prove the stolen van was used for serious crime. He also disputed that Nurcin’s knowledge of police pursuit tactics indicated he was a serious criminal, suggesting instead that it was common knowledge among those who have engaged in reckless driving.
McKiernan stated that Nurcin climbed the bridge “on adrenaline” after the crash and collapsed there, realizing the chaos and carnage he had caused.
Sentencing
Nurcin was sentenced at St Alban’s Crown Court for the deaths of Mrs Hawes and Mr Dek, marking a tragic end to a series of violent and reckless behaviours. The court emphasized the severity of his actions and the tragic loss of life resulting from his attempt to evade justice.
