Police investigate horrific car crash that killed two teenagers
Bradford residents Ather Ayaz and Mohammed Hamza Ali, both 18-years-old, were tragically killed when a red Honda Civic left the road and smashed through a bollard in Manningham Lane.
Police believe the Honda had an altercation with a silver Audi A4 shortly before it crashed. Male and female drivers, both aged 20, were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving before being released on bail.
Family and friends of the teenagers, both pupils at Belle Vue Boys’ School, in Heaton, described them as likable, friendly and helpful members of the community.
Councillor Ishtiaq Ahmed (Ind, Manningham) said, “This is very tragic – an absolute waste of two young lives. At this moment it is difficult to say exactly what happened, but my thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
“The community is in total shock about this. I drove past the scene of the accident shortly afterwards and to see the carnage was absolutely horrific.”
Family and friends visited the scene of the crash at the junction of Manningham Lane and Hamilton Street to lay flowers to tribute. Jamal Mahboob, a family friend, described the pair as “best friends”.
“They were lovely kids. They were both the youngest in their families, everyone is devastated. They were very well known in the area”.
Sergeant Ann Drury, of the Major Collision Enquiry Team at West Yorkshire Police, said officers were unclear about the details of the cars collision, but it supposedly took place several minutes before the Honda left the road at about 7.30pm on Tuesday.
Sgt Drury said, “We believe there was some sort of incident between the two vehicles but we are at a very early stage of the investigation and we are trying to establish the circumstances.
“It occurred a few minutes before the fatal collision and we are led to believe it was a little distance away.
“We are keen to hear from anyone who saw anything occur between the Audi and the Honda.”
It is unclear whether the drivers of both cars knew each other. Possible explanations are being discussed such as whether there had been a previous accident, a road rage incident, or ‘competitive’ driving.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information can contact the Major Collision Enquiry Team by calling 01924 293047 or 101.
