Life Sentence for Murderer Who Ran Over Delivery Driver in Stolen Van
Christopher El Gifari has been handed a life sentence with a minimum of 32 years for the brutal killing of delivery driver Mark Lang. The 32-year-old was found guilty at Cardiff Crown Court last month. Alongside the murder charge, El Gifari was also sentenced to 10 years for robbery, to run concurrently.
Delivery Driver Killed After Trying to Stop Stolen Van
The horrific incident unfolded on March 28 in Cathays, Cardiff, when emergency services responded to a single-vehicle crash on North Road. The vehicle was a delivery van stolen by El Gifari from Laytonia Avenue. Mark Lang, performing his routine deliveries, courageously tried to block the van on foot. Tragically, El Gifari drove straight over him, dragging Mark a long distance.
Mark’s Family Mourns as Killer Faces Justice
Despite desperate efforts by bystanders to aid Mark, he suffered critical injuries and never regained consciousness. He passed away 18 days later. Detective Chief Inspector Matt Powell from South Wales Police said he hopes the sentence offers the family some comfort in this devastating time.
“Mark was a much-loved partner, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, taken while simply doing his job.” – Detective Inspector Rebecca Merchant
Family Thanks Court, Police and Public for Support
Mark’s family released a heartfelt statement expressing gratitude to the court, jury, police, and Crown Prosecution Service for their dedication. They also thanked everyone who tried to help Mark—from those who called for emergency help to the paramedics and hospital staff. The family described the last months as traumatic, facing life without Mark, who leaves behind a devastated partner and loved ones robbed of future milestones.
