West Yorkshire Police have launched a national manhunt after three suspects were named in connection with the hit-and-run death of 19-year-old Ashton Kitchen-White on Ring Road, Beeston Park, Leeds. The tragic collision occurred on Friday, 16 May 2025, at around 10:09 PM, leaving Ashton fatally injured and his family heartbroken.
Details of the Collision
Ashton was struck by a red Ford Focus as he crossed near Leeds Urban Bike Park, following the vehicle’s turn from Bodmin Approach onto the ring road. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
The vehicle was later found abandoned nearby, and initial arrests of two males aged 19 and 15 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving were made. However, both were released without charge and are no longer under suspicion.
Police Name Three Wanted Suspects
Investigators from the West Yorkshire Police Major Collision Enquiry Team have now identified three men they urgently want to trace:
- Regan Kemp, 26, of St Just, Penzance, Cornwall
- Macauley Martin, 26, of Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland
- Liam Miller, 24, of Polbeth, West Lothian, Scotland
Investigators believe the red Ford Focus travelled from Scotland to Leeds before the fatal incident, and that the suspects returned north shortly after. CCTV images have been released in the effort to locate them.
Police Statement and Public Appeal
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, leading the investigation under Operation Pintford, said:
“Ashton was a much-loved young man with a bright future ahead. His death has devastated his family and friends. We are committed to getting answers for them and urgently need to locate these three men. Now is not the time for misplaced loyalty—please come forward with any information, no matter how small.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote crime reference 13250275852 or Operation Pintford. Alternatively, details can be submitted via West Yorkshire Police’s live chat or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.
Community Reaction and Context
The collision has sparked outrage across Leeds, with tributes pouring in for Ashton, described on social media as “a kind soul” and “a passionate, driven young man.” Floral tributes have been left near the crash site, and local calls for improved pedestrian safety in the area have resurfaced.
The incident adds to a troubling rise in fatal road collisions across West Yorkshire, with police reiterating their commitment to holding those responsible to account.
