Van driver who killed university student, 20, in central London crash is jailed

The judge paid tribute to Aalia’s family,who ‘spoke with grace,dignity and eloquence of their profound loss and crushing grief’.

He added: ‘It is simply not possible to overstate the impact of Aalia’s killing on them,as well as on Aalia’s wider family and friends.

‘What shone brightly was their pride in who Aalia was.

‘The dangerous driver who caused Aalia’s death also caused life-changing injuries to two other Kings students.

‘For wholly understandable reasons neither of them wished their victim impact statements to be read out in court.

‘Their wishes have been honoured,but I will only say that their evidence is a humbling testament to their courage,resilience and strength of character.

‘Quite apart from the unimaginable pain and suffering they have already endured,each of them faces huge uncertainties and challenges in relation to their future health,careers and wellbeing.

‘The impact on them could not be more severe. They could easily have been killed.

‘You,Christopher Jackson,must live with the knowledge that you are the driver who caused all this dreadful damage.’

Jackson pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving (Picture: Metropolitan Police/PA)

Jackson was told he would serve two-thirds of his sentence before being released on licence.

He was also told he would be disqualified from driving for five years,which would be extended for the period he will be in custody,and that he must pass a compulsory retest.

Detective Chief Superintendent Donna Smith said: ‘It is almost a year to the day since this terrible incident took place.

‘It should never have happened,and Aalia should still be with us today,surrounded by those who loved her.

‘Our thoughts,as always,remain with Aalia’s family and friends. Their strength over the past year has been extraordinary. We cannot begin to imagine the immeasurable suffering they have been through since last March.

‘We would also like to share our thoughts with the two other victims,whose lives have been forever changed. They continue to show remarkable courage,and we know their lives will never be the same.’

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