Man Jailed for Brutal Amazon Van Theft and Serious Injuries
Jarren Reid, 33, from Lapworth Road, Coventry, was locked up for 13-and-a-half years at Warwick Crown Court after admitting theft and wounding charges.
Wild Ride Ends in Chaos
On 19 November 2018, Reid was caught as a passenger in a Mercedes A-Class trailing an Amazon delivery van in Marlborough Road and Dean Street. When the van stopped to make a delivery, Reid leapt inside and tried to make off with it.
The van driver clung desperately to the bonnet, begging Reid to stop. But Reid swerved violently, slammed the brakes, and drove erratically in a dangerous attempt to shake off the driver.
Serious Injuries and Burnt-Out Van
After several terrifying minutes, the driver was thrown off and struck by a lorry, suffering serious injuries including a traumatic brain injury. The damage left him battling movement and balance issues, and he required complex, life-saving surgery.
The stolen van was later found burnt out on Shilton Lane, close to Reid’s home.
Fugitive No More
Reid evaded police for nearly four years before finally being arrested. He refused to answer any questions during his interview but was eventually charged with theft and wounding.
DC Keith Clarkson, Coventry FCID, said: “This was a calculated theft which left the victim with lasting injuries requiring life-saving surgery.
