Wife's Heartbreaking Statement After Devoted Dad Killed by 90mph Driver in Birmingham
The devastated wife of a father killed in a horrific high-speed crash on one of Birmingham's busiest streets has spoken of her profound heartbreak as the driver responsible is sentenced to prison. Hizar Hanif, a 32-year-old businessman and devoted father, lost his life instantly when his BMW was struck from behind by an Audi driven at approximately 90mph in a 30mph zone on Soho Road in Handsworth.
The Tragic Incident on Soho Road
The collision occurred on the evening of Sunday, February 18, 2024, around 8:20 pm. Mohammed Ali, 27, from Birchfield, was seen dangerously overtaking multiple vehicles moments before his Audi crashed into the back of Mr. Hanif's car. At the time of the impact, Mr. Hanif and a friend were traveling to collect suits in preparation for the friend's wedding scheduled for the following week.
Mr. Hanif suffered multiple fatal injuries and died immediately at the scene. His friend sustained minor physical injuries but continues to endure the emotional trauma of losing his best friend. Ali's vehicle also collided with another car, seriously injuring its driver, adding to the devastation of the incident.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Mohammed Ali was arrested after the crash and later charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and assaulting a police officer during his hospitalization. At Birmingham Crown Court last month, Ali pleaded guilty to all charges.
On Friday, April 17, 2026, he was sentenced to seven years in prison. Upon his release, he will be banned from driving for four years and six months. The court heard a powerful victim impact statement from Mr. Hanif's wife, Kiran Khanum, detailing the irreversible loss suffered by the family.
A Family's Unimaginable Grief
In her statement read aloud in court, Kiran Khanum expressed the profound void left by her husband's death. She described Hizar Hanif as a loving husband, devoted father, cherished son, supportive brother, and the central heart of their family. Her words captured the sudden and brutal shift from a perfect life to one filled with enduring pain.
"That day my life changed forever. I lost my soulmate, my son lost his daddy, his parents lost a son and his brothers lost their big brother," she said. "I don't understand how one minute life was perfect, and then it wasn't. This should never have happened. I have no peace and I'm living on autopilot."
She poignantly highlighted the impact on their young son, stating, "My son didn't have enough time with his daddy and that's not ok. No child should have to experience grief so young. I am struggling to figure out how I live in a world without him beside me." The family emphasized that his loss is a burden they will carry for the rest of their lives.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
This tragic event has reverberated throughout the Handsworth community, underscoring critical issues of road safety and the consequences of reckless driving. Tributes, including flowers and messages, were left at the scene on Soho Road, reflecting the deep affection and respect held for Hizar Hanif.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating outcomes that can result from excessive speeding and dangerous maneuvers on urban roads. Authorities continue to stress the importance of adhering to speed limits and driving responsibly to prevent such needless tragedies.
