Yusuf Muzil jailed for causing death of George Greaves in crash at Ashley Heath Roundabout, near Ringwood
The heartbroken family of a man killed in a crash near Ringwood have paid tribute to him after a driver was jailed for 12 years for causing his death.
The Nissan Micra in which George Greaves (31) was a passenger was smashed from behind as it approached Ashley Heath Roundabout on the northbound carriageway of the A338, on 15th June this year.
The Lexus GS300 being driven by Yusuf Muzil (22) hit the Micra with so much force it plunged off the road and into a verge.
George was pronounced dead at the scene, while two other occupants of the vehicle were taken to hospital with serious injuries.
Members of the public helped at the scene and witnesses reported seeing the three occupants of the Lexus remove a black holdall from the vehicle and flee the scene. The registration plates from the vehicle were also removed before they left the collision site.
After searches of the area with help from the police helicopter and a dog unit, the three suspects were caught in a nearby caravan park.
Witnesses also reported seeing the Lexus travelling at speeds over 80mph in the moments leading up to the crash.
Muzil, of Cricklewood in London, was subsequently charged, admitting causing death by dangerous driving and two charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He was sentenced to 12 years in prison and disqualified from driving for three years, with the ban due to start on his release from prison.
The two other men, arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, were released without charge following an investigation by the Roads Policing Team.
After the sentencing, the family of George Greaves said in a statement: “The sudden loss of our happy smiling George – son, brother, grandson and friend – has devastated our family and changed all our futures forever.
“He leaves behind a huge number of heartbroken family and friends who loved him so dearly for so many different reasons. We will all remember George for his kindness and care for others, plus his awesome guitar skills that provided us and him with so much pleasure.
“The world was far more wonderful with George in it. He will be forever missed by us all for the promising life we were so looking forward to being a part of, that now will never be. Rest and rock in peace George.”
Sergeant Dave Cotterill, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Yusuf Muzil’s reckless driving at excessive speeds had tragic consequences and our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of George Greaves.
“This case is another demonstration of the truly horrific consequences of motorists failing to drive in a safe and sensible manner and we are determined to ensure those who pose a danger to other road users are identified and brought to justice.
“Thanks to the swift response of officers on the night and work of search teams, we were able to quickly apprehend this defendant so he could be held accountable for his actions.”
