Netflix Star Accused in Fatal Collision
Justin Clarke-Samuel, the grime musician and Netflix actor known professionally as Ghetts, is confronting further serious charges of dangerous driving linked to an incident where he allegedly killed a young man in a hit-and-run collision. The 41-year-old appeared at The Old Bailey in London via videolink from Pentonville prison, dressed in a plain, grey short-sleeved T-shirt.
Details of the Allegations
The court heard that on October 18, at approximately 11.33pm, Clarke-Samuel's BMW struck 20-year-old Yubin Tamang on Redbridge Lane in Ilford. It is alleged the performer failed to stop at the scene. Tragically, Mr Tamang passed away on October 20.
While the artist was initially charged with a single count of causing death by dangerous driving, the prosecution has now brought two additional charges. These new allegations claim he was driving dangerously on roads in Camden, including Tavistock Place, prior to the fatal collision. Furthermore, it is alleged he continued to drive dangerously after the incident on his journey back to his home in King's Avenue, Woodford, specifically in Worcester Crescent, Redbridge.
Police attended the defendant's Woodford address early the following day, where the black BMW, allegedly registered and insured to Clarke-Samuel, was found to have significant damage.
Court Proceedings and Family Impact
During the recent hearing, which was observed by members of Mr Tamang's family who had travelled from Nepal, the rapper spoke only to confirm his name. Judge Nigel Lickley KC adjourned the case, stating, ‘I’m not going to ask you to enter your pleas today, but I will require you to enter your pleas on December 8.’ The judge remanded Clarke-Samuel in custody, permitting him to appear via videolink again for the next hearing.
The victim, Yubin Tamang, was an only child sent to the UK by his parents to receive an education. He was a good student studying at the University of Roehampton and was described as a keen musician and hip-hop fan. His father posted a poignant online tribute, writing, ‘My little world, all I have left is tears in my hands.’ A friend, David, who lived with Yubin in east London, told Metro: ‘He was my brother. I can barely speak. I am so upset. He was a good person, a very good person.’
Clarke-Samuel first appeared in Stratford Magistrates’ Court on October 20, initially charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving. This charge was upgraded following Mr Tamang's death.
The performer, who starred in the Netflix superhero drama Supacell, is a respected figure in the UK music scene. He has collaborated with artists like Skepta, Stormzy, and Ed Sheeran, won a MOBO award, and was nominated for the Mercury Prize.
