Grime star Ghetts faces charges after 20-year-old man dies following crash in east London
British rapper Ghetts has been charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving following a fatal hit-and-run in east London.
The musician, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, is accused of failing to stop after allegedly striking a 20-year-old pedestrian in Redbridge Lane East, Ilford, on Saturday, 18 October. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the victim later died in hospital on Monday.
Clarke-Samuel, 41, appeared at Stratford Magistrates’ Court on the same day the young man died. Prosecutors told the court that the charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving is expected to be upgraded to causing death by dangerous driving at his next hearing.
The rapper, from Woodford Green, has been remanded in custody and is due to appear again at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 27 October. Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the incident to come forward as investigations continue.
The collision, which occurred late on Saturday evening, left emergency services rushing to the scene after reports of a man being hit by a car that did not stop. Despite medical intervention, the victim succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Embed from Getty Images
The Metropolitan Police have not released the name of the deceased, but officers say his family has been informed and is being supported by specialist officers.
The news has sent shockwaves through the UK music industry, where Ghetts is regarded as one of the most influential artists of his generation. Known for his powerful lyricism and raw storytelling, he has been a defining figure in Britain’s grime scene for nearly two decades.
A Mercury Prize nominee, Ghetts has collaborated with some of the biggest names in British music, including Stormzy, Ed Sheeran, and Skepta. His albums have earned widespread critical acclaim, and in 2021 he won Best Male Act at the MOBO Awards, before being honoured with the MOBO Pioneer Award in 2024 for his contribution to British black culture and music.
In addition to his recording success, Ghetts has branched into acting, recently appearing in the Netflix sci-fi drama Supacell. The series marked his first major screen role and expanded his reputation beyond music.
Fans and fellow artists have expressed disbelief online as news of the charges spread. Social media timelines were filled with shock and sadness, though many have also expressed sympathy for the victim’s family, calling the incident a “devastating tragedy for everyone involved.”
Police have emphasised that their investigation remains active and urged anyone with information to contact them immediately. “We are particularly keen to speak with drivers who were in the Redbridge Lane East area around the time of the collision and may have dashcam footage,” a Met Police spokesperson said.
If convicted of causing death by dangerous driving, Clarke-Samuel could face a lengthy prison sentence. The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment under UK law, depending on the circumstances and evidence presented in court.
The fatal crash marks a dark chapter for an artist celebrated for his rise from London’s underground music scene to national acclaim. From his early days in grime collectives to his polished, socially conscious albums, Ghetts has been widely praised for his artistry and honesty.
Now, as legal proceedings unfold, his career and freedom hang in the balance.