A probe into the murder of Claudiu-Carol Kondor, an Amazon delivery driver, has started after his death during a van theft in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Kondor, who was in his 40s, was killed while trying to prevent a thief from making off with his van, with the culprit speeding away while Kondor was still partially in the vehicle.
The event unfolded around 6:50 p.m. on Heights Drive in Wortley, Leeds shortly after Kondor, 42, had finished a delivery. The West Yorkshire Police report that Kondor attempted to interfere when he noticed a man trying to steal his silver Ford Transit van. The thief abruptly took off, dragging Kondor along the road. After colliding with two stationary cars, Kondor was flung from the van and sustained fatal injuries. Despite the efforts of those nearby and paramedics, he was declared dead on the scene
The investigation is still in its early stages and Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle characterized the incident as profoundly unsettling. On Wednesday night a 32-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of murder and on Thursday, after appeals to the public, 24-year-old Eddie Hampshire was caught and arrested. A woman was also held on suspicion of aiding an offender.
The stolen vehicle was later found abandoned around six miles away in the Belle Isle neighborhood. Detectives are seeking witnesses and are particularly interested in obtaining any dashcam or CCTV footage that could provide additional information. Entwistle underscored the importance of anyone with relevant footage or information to come forward to aid in the investigation of this senseless act.
In the wake of the tragic event, friends and colleagues have been paying tribute to Kondor, originally from Romania. He was remembered as a loved and hardworking individual. A former colleague, Mike Neill, praised Kondor’s commitment to his job and family. Neill has set up a GoFundMe campaign to assist Kondor’s family with funeral and other related costs, which has already raised over $8,800.
Amazon extended its sympathy, stating that they are thinking of Claudiu’s family, friends, and colleagues and confirmed their support for the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation continues, the police have amplified their presence in Wortley and Belle Isle, conducting door-to-door inquiries. Forensic teams are also on-site to gather any potential evidence from the crime scenes.
