Speed Demon Sentenced After Cousin’s Deadly Crash on London’s A40
Abdullah Alsaadoun, 22, has been locked up for eight years and four months after a high-speed stunt ended in tragedy. Driving a rented BMW 640D at three times the 30mph limit on the A40 Westway in Paddington, London, he smashed into a 26-tonne lorry. His passenger and cousin, 20-year-old Yusif Salah, was killed instantly.
Showing Off Gone Horribly Wrong
Prosecutor Lisa Goddard revealed Alsaadoun’s deadly motive: a reckless bid to flaunt the power of the £300-a-fortnight rented BMW. Yusif’s family painted a stark contrast, describing him as a quiet young man who hated speed and avoided fast rides like rollercoasters.
The collision tore through lives. Alsaadoun walked away with minor injuries, but Yusif didn’t survive despite paramedics’ efforts. The lorry driver was left traumatised by Alsaadoun’s shock and despair at the scene.
Emergency Delays and Family Fury
Instead of calling 999 immediately, Alsaadoun rang his parents who lived nearby. Yusif’s father, Tariq Salah, slammed this delay as unforgivable. Alsaadoun argued other motorists were already alerting emergency services.
Family Heartbreak and A Damaged Bond
Victim impact statements laid bare the family’s anguish. Yusif’s mother and sister spoke of their crushing loss and how the tragedy shattered their lives. Relations between the two families are now beyond repair, with Yusif’s mother doubting any genuine remorse from Alsaadoun.
Peter Marshall, Alsaadoun’s barrister, claimed his client feels deep regret but has been warned against contacting Yusif’s family amid the sensitive situation.
Harsher Sentences Loom as Past Mistakes Mount
Judge Anthony Leonard noted that new sentencing laws, which could have imposed a life sentence, were just weeks away. Alsaadoun’s rap sheet includes past driving offences with cannabis and without insurance. Alongside jail time, he faces a 10-year driving ban and an extended driving test before he can hit the road again.
