A driver who hit and killed a cyclist before fleeing the scene and setting his car on fire in attempt to avoid being caught has been jailed for 13 years.

Keiran Hunt’s VW Golf was found burnt out in the Potternewton area of Leeds. The dangerous driver had hit and killed cyclist John Shelton on Ridge Road at around 2pm on Monday 28 April. The cyclist suffered catastrophic injuries and, despite the work of the emergency services, died at the scene a short time later.

Hunt, 37, was identified as the driver involved after an investigation by West Yorkshire Police’s ‘major collision enquiry team’ and charged in May. He pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice, and last week was jailed for 13 years.

Speaking on the sentencing, detective inspector Paul Conroy of the major collision enquiry team at West Yorkshire Police, said: “This was a truly devastating incident that left John’s family with the devastating loss of a loved one. Whilst the sentencing today, does not bring John back, our investigation has resulted in the man responsible for his death now serving time in prison.  

“Hunt’s actions on that day, cannot be reversed. He left the scene, leaving John with injuries, that were not survivable. He then attempted to destroy the car and evidence of what had happened. We hope this serves as a reminder, that the repercussions of speeding, can be much worse than a fine or points on your licence, you can take away someone’s life in a matter of minutes.  

“Our thoughts will remain with John’s family and friends who are understandably continuing to navigate their loss.”

The family of Mr Shelton echoed that no sentence “will ever make up for his death” and said Hunt’s actions had “changed our lives forever”.

In a statement the family said: “April 28th, 2025, changed our lives forever. John was so cruelly taken from all of us; we couldn’t even see him, say goodbye, give him a kiss or hold his hand one last time.  

“No sentence passed by the courts will ever make up for his death or surpass the lifetime of hurt we will all suffer especially his wonderful son Thomas. We ask that you continue to respect our privacy during this difficult time as we all continue to navigate the physical and emotional pain of our loss.”