Driver jailed after hit-and-run death in Luton drug robbery chase
Tragic hit-and-run on Dewsbury Road
Tola Piper, 34, from Bedford, was killed in a brutal hit-and-run last year on Dewsbury Road, Luton. The victim suffered fatal injuries when 27-year-old Karan Soni ran him over. Soni was chasing Piper following a robbery involving stolen cocaine and cash.
Machete and damaged car point to crime
Police found a machete near the scene and a damaged Vauxhall badge linking the vehicle to Soni, from Birchwood Avenue, Hatfield. The court heard that Piper was running alongside a silver Nissan Micra when Soni’s black Vauxhall Insignia smashed into him, then collided with the Micra.
Forensic checks confirmed Soni as the registered owner of the car. Damage to the Vauxhall’s offside panel matched the collision with the Nissan. The Vauxhall badge was discovered missing when the vehicle was seized, backing up the investigation.
Jailing and final verdict
Soni was arrested the day after the crash and charged initially with murder, but was later convicted of manslaughter. On Friday 25 November, he was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years for manslaughter. Additional consecutive sentences of 16 and 18 months were handed down for two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
This brings Soni’s total jail time to 10 years and four months behind bars.
Police comments: A warning to drug criminals
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Khanna, leading the investigation, said: “I believe the manslaughter conviction and sentences will bring some solace to the Piper family after a tragic time. Thanks to the public’s bravery, our investigation was more thorough.”
Detective Inspector Tom Stean added: “This daylight violence is unacceptable. The links between drugs, violence and organised crime are clear. Anyone involved in the illegal drugs trade should know the huge risks they face – prison or worse.”
For support or information on tackling organised crime in Bedfordshire, visit bavex.co.uk.
