A man has been charged with murder over the death of a brave parcel delivery driver who was allegedly dragged to his death trying to stop thieves stealing his Amazon parcel van.
Claudiu-Carol Kondor, 42, was on his rounds delivering Amazon parcels on Tuesday evening when his grey transit van was stolen in Leeds, West Yorkshire.Â
He tried to stop the theft but was left fighting for his life on the road, and tragically died a short time later.Â
Mark Ross, 32, of Conference Road, Armley, has now been charged with murder, West Yorkshire Police confirmed. He will appear before magistrates in the city on Friday
A 24-year-old man, who was arrested yesterday, on suspicion of murder, remains in custody.Â
And a woman, who was arrested at the same time on suspicion of assisting an offender, has been released under investigation.Â
Claudiu-Carol Kondor was named as the brave van driver who died on Tuesday night
The scene in Leeds, West Yorkshire on Tuesday after Mr Kondor was found fighting for his lifeÂ
Tributes have been paid to tragic Claudiu-Carol Kondor, pictured here with his wife Mariana
Mr Kondor, who leaves behind heartbroken wife Mariana, was delivering a package to a house at about 6.45pm on Tuesday when he is said to have returned to see a man jumping into his vehicle.Â
He tried to stop the thief by getting into the van himself, but the suspect is accused of driving away at speed, dragging the driver for half a mile as he desperately hung out of the door.Â
The silver Ford Transit Cargo then smashed into two parked cars, around half a mile away.
As Mr Kondor lay dying in the street, the thief is alleged to have driven off, and abandoned the vehicle six miles away in Heights Drive.
The driver, who delivered Amazon parcels through a third party courier, was found seriously injured at the scene shortly before 7pm.
Officers attended and found the victim unconscious with members of the public trying to help him.
Mr Kondor was given emergency treatment by ambulance staff but was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later, with police launching a murder inquiry.
Police later found the van around six miles away from the scene of the attack, in Highlands Walk, Belle Isle.
West Yorkshire Police said the driver’s family are ‘completely devastated’.Â
Forensics officers at the scene investigating after the driver was killed
Police later found the van around six miles away from the scene of the attack
The thief drove away, leaving the victim dying in the street between the junctions of Heights Way and Heights Bank. He was found on Heights Drive (pictured)
Mike Neill, Operations Manager of the SP Transport Group, launched a GoFundMe in Mr Kondor’s memory which has already raised nearly £2000.
It reads: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the loss of our beloved colleague, Claudiu-Carol Kondor.
‘Claudiu was a dedicated and cherished member of the SP Transport Group family, who tragically lost his life on August 20, 2024, during a struggle that occurred in the midst of a van theft. This unimaginable loss has left us all devastated.
‘Claudiu was more than just a colleague—he was a friend, a confidant, and a valued member of our team. His commitment to his work and the camaraderie he brought to the workplace will never be forgotten. The impact of this tragedy extends far beyond our workplace, affecting all who had the privilege of knowing Claudiu.
‘We are launching this GoFundMe campaign to support Claudiu’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
‘Our goal is to alleviate some of the financial burdens they are facing, including funeral costs, legal expenses, and any other unforeseen challenges that may arise. While no amount of money can fill the void left by Claudiu’s passing, we hope to provide some comfort and support to his loved ones.
‘We understand that this is a challenging time for everyone, and we are grateful for any contribution you can make, no matter the size. Every donation will go directly to Claudiu’s family to help them navigate the difficult days ahead.
