Amazon Driver Killed in Shocking Leeds Vanjacking
Tributes have poured in for Claudiu-Carol Kondor, an Amazon delivery driver who lost his life in a brutal “vanjacking” in Leeds on Tuesday evening. Kondor was found seriously injured on Heights Drive, Wortley, just before 7pm. Despite emergency crews rushing to his aid, he sadly died from his injuries.
Van Theft Turns Deadly
The terrifying ordeal unfolded when Kondor returned to his van after a delivery and caught a thief trying to steal it. As Kondor tried to stop the theft, the suspect sped off — with the driver partially still inside the van. The stolen vehicle crashed into two parked cars before the thief fled, leaving Kondor gravely injured on the street. The van was later found abandoned miles away.
Heartbreaking Tributes and Fundraiser Launched
Kondor’s death has devastated his community and colleagues. Mike Neill, Operations Manager at SP Transport Group where Kondor worked, paid an emotional tribute:
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the loss of our beloved colleague, Claudiu-Carol Kondor. He was a dedicated and cherished member of the SP Transport Group family. This unimaginable loss has left us all devastated.”
Neill has set up a GoFundMe campaign to support Kondor’s family with funeral and legal costs. He described Claudiu as “more than just a colleague — a friend, a confidant, and a valued member of our team.” The campaign has received an outpouring of support from the public.
Police Hunt Suspect as Community Rallies
West Yorkshire Police have launched a full investigation into the tragic event. Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle said:
“This appears to be a truly shocking incident where the victim has been killed while going about his business as a parcel delivery driver. His family is completely devastated.”
Police are urgently appealing for witnesses to come forward with dashcam, doorbell, or CCTV footage from the area to help identify the suspect and trace the van’s route after the theft.
An Amazon spokesperson extended condolences to Kondor’s family and colleagues, saying: “This is a terrible incident and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the delivery driver’s loved ones. We will do all we can to assist police with their investigations.”
The Leeds community continues to mourn, flooding social media with messages of sympathy. Anyone with information is urged to contact West Yorkshire Police on 101 quoting Operation Proscombe or report online.
