The 53-year-old man will be sentenced on Wednesday, October 21 after he was found guilty of causing death of Michael Ashton by dangerous driving
A taxi driver who drove into his passenger moments after dropping off at his home has been found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving.
Michael Ashton, 28, was hit by the car which had brought him back to his home in Langdon Hills after an evening out with his girlfriend last year. Essex Police launched an investigation and enquiries showed his taxi driver that night had driven in a dangerous manner and hit the victim with his car.
Mr Ashton was taken to hospital following the incident on September 26, 2025 in a critical condition and passed away from his injuries on October 4.
Hayadulla Turkmani, 53, of Langdale Gardens, Hornchurch, was arrested on suspicion of murder and charged with the offence on October 17.
Their investigations showed that Mr Turkmani drove dangerously and collided with Mr Ashton. He told officers who were first on the scene that the deceased had walked in front of his car, but investigations proved that this was not the case.
After a 15-day trial at Basildon Crown Court, the jury found Mr Turkmani guilty of causing death by dangerous driving. He had denied charges of murder, manslaughter and causing death by dangerous driving. The jury found him not guilty of murder or manslaughter. He will be sentenced on Wednesday, October 21.
Detective Inspector Stewart Eastbrook said, “ This was a horrific incident. Michael and his girlfriend were returning home after a night out and it was the defendant’s job to deliver them home safely.
“Instead he reacted angrily after Michael became unwell and this escalated into violence and Michael was fatally injured.”
After he died, Mr Ashton’s family remembered him as “the most hardworking, fun, loving, and likeable person that anyone could wish to meet.”
“He was dearly loved by his family, his girlfriend, and the endless list of friends he had. He is also very much missed by his workmates at the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham Council,” his family said.
“He will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.”