A dramatic video capturing the moment a car thief crashed a stolen BMW into a hedge during an 80mph police chase in Cardiff has surfaced, revealing the dangerous escapade. The thief, identified as Nathan Krishnan, 42, was observed stealing a white BMW 3 Series from a residence in Cardiff on September 8. The video footage shows Krishnan revving the engine and driving off at high speed, colliding with parked cars as he made his escape. The victim, witnessing the theft from his property, alerted the authorities, triggering a pursuit by police officers.
During the chase, Krishnan accelerated to speeds of up to 80mph, as recorded on the camera. Officers spotted Krishnan in the stolen BMW at a junction between Leckwith and Atlas Road. They attempted to intervene by driving alongside the vehicle on Beechley Road in Pentrebane, instructing Krishnan to halt the car. However, Krishnan defied the police orders and accelerated, initiating a high-speed pursuit. Despite the officers reaching speeds of 80mph themselves, Krishnan managed to maintain distance and evade capture as he raced along a country road between Pentrebane and St Fagans.
The pursuit came to a dramatic end when the stolen BMW crashed into a hedgerow, causing significant damage to the car and triggering the deployment of airbags. Krishnan’s reckless actions also led to a passenger fleeing from the scene, while the defendant complained of an injury sustained during the crash. Krishnan, a repeat offender with a history of over 100 offences, including driving-related violations, pleaded guilty to charges of dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, driving while disqualified, and driving without insurance.
In court, Krishnan’s defence lawyer, Julia Cox, highlighted her client’s struggles with substance abuse, specifically cocaine, and his efforts to address underlying issues such as ADHD and childhood trauma. Despite these mitigating factors, Judge Richard Kember sentenced Krishnan to 30 weeks in prison and imposed a 37-month driving ban as part of the punishment handed down. The sentencing served as a stern reminder of the consequences of Krishnan’s dangerous actions and the risks posed to public safety by such reckless behaviour.
The incident underscores the dangers posed by individuals engaging in criminal activities and fleeing from law enforcement, endangering not only themselves but also innocent bystanders. The case serves as a cautionary tale highlighting the importance of responsible driving and adherence to the law to ensure the safety of all road users. Krishnan’s actions not only put his own life at risk but also jeopardised the lives of others, necessitating swift and decisive legal intervention to address such behaviour. The public can draw lessons from this incident about the severe consequences of criminal behaviour and the importance of upholding road safety regulations for the well-being of all.