Tottenham Man Sentenced for Deadly M25 Crash Driving Stolen Van the Wrong Way
Barancan Nurcin, 22, from High Road, Tottenham, has been sentenced after causing a fatal crash on the M25 last February. Nurcin was driving a stolen van against oncoming traffic while trying to dodge the police. The court heard Nurcin was already on bail and serving a suspended sentence for violent offences at the time.
Violent Past and Driving Ban
- Nurcin has a troubling history of violence, including two unprovoked attacks.
- In April 2021, he struck a man from behind in a Chingford shop.
- In February 2023, he caused a brain bleed to another victim in Wood Green.
- For the Wood Green attack, he got a 15-month suspended sentence in May 2023.
- He was banned from driving due to heavy cannabis use and has a prior drug possession conviction.
Fatal Crash and Police Chase
On the night of the crash, Nurcin drove to Northampton and was caught driving a stolen vehicle on his way back. Prosecutor Mark Fenhalls KC hinted Nurcin’s trip might have been linked to serious criminal activity.
It’s common knowledge among criminals that driving the wrong way on busy roads is a tactic to evade police, who are not allowed to pursue suspects head-on due to safety rules.
Deadly Consequences and Aftermath
The crash killed Mrs. Hawes and Mr. Dek. After the smash, Nurcin abandoned the mortally wounded Mr. Dek inside the van and made no effort to help anyone else. He was later found injured with a broken pelvis on a nearby bridge.
Courtroom Drama
At St Albans Crown Court, CCTV footage of Nurcin’s past attacks was shown. Detective Sergeant Ben Heath warned about the dangers of police chases involving oncoming traffic.
Defence barrister Edward McKiernan claimed Nurcin was a victim of “character assassination” and argued there was not enough proof the stolen van was connected to serious crime. He said Nurcin’s knowledge of police evasion tactics didn’t prove he was a hardened criminal but was common among reckless drivers.
McKiernan added Nurcin climbed the bridge “on adrenaline” after the crash and collapsed, overwhelmed by the chaos he caused.
Nurcin Sentenced for Fatal M25 Crash
Nurcin was sentenced at St Albans Crown Court for causing the deaths of Mrs. Hawes and Mr. Dek. The court stressed the gravity of his violent and reckless behaviour and the tragic loss of life resulting from his desperate attempt to dodge justice.
