Award‑winning British rapper Ghetts, whose real name is Justin Clarke‑Samuel, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after admitting to causing the death of a young student in a hit‑and‑run collision in London.
The case has shocked fans and the wider public, as Ghetts was known not only for his music but also for his recent acting roles and growing mainstream recognition.
The incident took place on October 18, 2025, in Ilford, east London. Ghetts was driving his BMW M5 at more than 60mph in a 30mph zone when he struck 20‑year‑old Yubin Tamang, a Nepali university student.
Tamang suffered catastrophic injuries and died in the hospital two days later. CCTV footage showed Ghetts driving recklessly, even on the wrong side of the road, before the collision.
Instead of stopping to help, he fled the scene, failing to call emergency services.
At the Old Bailey, Ghetts pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and to an additional charge of dangerous driving prior to the fatal crash.
The court also heard that he was over the drink‑drive limit at the time. Judge Mark Lucraft KC described his actions as “reckless and selfish,” disqualifying him from driving for 17 years in addition to the prison sentence.
The sentencing marks a dramatic fall from grace for Ghetts, who had been nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2024 for his fourth studio album and was gaining recognition as one of the UK’s most respected rap artists.
He had also appeared in Netflix’s Supacell, further cementing his crossover appeal. Fans who admired his artistry have expressed disappointment and sadness at the choices that led to this tragedy.
The victim, Yubin Tamang, had come to the UK from Nepal to pursue his studies. His death has devastated his family and community, both in London and back home.
Tributes have described him as a bright, ambitious young man with a promising future. The case has drawn attention to the dangers of reckless driving and the devastating consequences it can have on innocent lives.
While Ghetts will serve his sentence, the impact of his actions will be felt for years. The music industry has lost a prominent voice to criminal behavior, and a family has lost a son in circumstances that could have been avoided.
The story serves as a sobering reminder that fame and success do not place anyone above the law, and that responsibility behind the wheel is a matter of life and death.
Leave a Comment