A driver under the influence of alcohol and drugs crashed his Mercedes into a crowd outside a nightclub, causing severe injuries to a DJ. The incident occurred on October 3, 2024, when Mohammed Suffi, 23, drove his SUV into people outside The Tunnel Club in Birmingham after being encouraged by a friend following a university event.

The reckless act left six individuals injured, including the well-known DJ Caliston Calistus, who sustained multiple fractures and collapsed lungs after being dragged by the Mercedes SP69. The court learned that the attack, triggered by an earlier altercation, shattered the victim’s career aspirations as an international DJ.

Suffi, who had ingested nitrous oxide, attempted to dispose of the vehicle before fleeing to Dubai. He was convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent after admitting to dangerous driving. Recently, Suffi, from Aston, Birmingham, was sentenced to 11 years and six months in prison and disqualified from driving for over 10 years at Birmingham Crown Court.

Three other individuals, Daanyal Hussain, Mustafa Gohari, and Armaan Abid, previously pleaded guilty to affray. They received an 11-month suspended jail term and were ordered to perform 180 hours of unpaid work.

During sentencing, Judge Paul Farrer KC described the events leading to the violence outside the club, highlighting the defendants’ aggressive behavior and intent to harm. He emphasized the severe consequences of Suffi’s actions on the victim, whose promising DJ career was abruptly halted due to the injuries sustained.

The court also heard about the defendants’ drug use and escalating tensions that culminated in the violent incident. The prosecution revealed that the defendants instigated the violence and engaged in aggressive behavior, leading to the tragic outcome for the victim.

In a statement, the victim expressed the profound impact of the incident on his life, detailing ongoing physical and psychological challenges. Previously passionate about his DJ career and active lifestyle, he now faces limitations and emotional distress as a result of the attack.

Defense lawyers acknowledged the defendants’ regret for their actions, attributing the incident to a moment of panic and poor judgment fueled by alcohol and drug consumption. The legal representatives emphasized the immaturity and regrettable nature of the defendants’ behavior during the altercation.