URGENT UPDATE: A dangerous driver has been sentenced to 10 years and 6 months in prison after fatally striking 62-year-old Baljit Kaur, described as a “loving angel,” in Smethwick. The tragic incident occurred on August 28, 2022, when Erjon Aliaj, 35, drove a borrowed Mercedes at alarming speeds of up to 88 mph on Thimblemill Road.
Witnesses reported that Aliaj was driving recklessly through the streets of Bearwood before losing control of the vehicle around 9:25 PM. At that moment, Kaur was being dropped off outside her home by her colleague, Manveer Kaur. Judge Michael Chambers KC, who presided over the case, emphasized the severity of the incident, noting that Aliaj collided with not just Kaur’s vehicle but also four others.
In his sentencing remarks, Judge Chambers stated, “You collided not just with the rear of the vehicle which the deceased had been in, but also a number of others… Her injuries were so extensive that she died at the scene.” The emotional weight of the tragedy was palpable in the courtroom, where Kaur’s family and friends mourned their loss.
Prosecutor Tariq Shakoor revealed that a breath test conducted after the collision showed Aliaj had a blood alcohol level of 69 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit. Additionally, three wraps of cocaine were found on him, with tests indicating recent use. Witnesses described the Mercedes speeding past them “like a missile” just moments before the crash occurred.
One passenger in the vehicle, Dara Racher, recounted how Aliaj ignored her pleas to slow down, highlighting the reckless nature of his driving. Aliaj’s defense attorney, Bal Singh, portrayed him as a hardworking individual struggling with personal issues at the time of the incident.
Aliaj, who has been living in the UK since 2009, pleaded guilty to causing Kaur’s death by dangerous driving in a previous hearing. His sentence was reduced from 14 years due to his early guilty plea. Alongside the prison term, Aliaj received a 13-year extended driving ban and must pass an extended test to regain his driving privileges.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the drugs found in Aliaj’s possession. This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and impaired judgment behind the wheel.
As the community mourns the loss of a beloved mother and friend, authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible driving. This incident has sparked renewed discussions about road safety measures in the area.
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage and updates on this developing story.
