A murder investigation is underway after Amazon delivery driver Claudiu-Carol Kondor was killed during an apparent van theft in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Kondor, in his 40s, was attempting to stop a thief from stealing his van when the suspect sped off with Kondor partially inside the vehicle.
The incident occurred at around 6:50 p.m. on Heights Drive in Wortley, Leeds, shortly after Kondor had completed a delivery. According to West Yorkshire Police, Kondor tried to intervene when he saw a man attempting to steal his silver Ford Transit van. The thief drove off at high speed, dragging Kondor along the street. The van collided with two parked cars before Kondor was thrown from the vehicle and left fatally injured. Despite attempts by bystanders and paramedics to save him, Kondor was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, heading the investigation, characterized the incident as deeply disturbing. He noted that while the investigation is still in its early stages, every effort is made to bring the individual responsible to justice.
The stolen van was discovered abandoned approximately six miles away in the Belle Isle neighborhood. Investigators seek witnesses and are especially focused on obtaining dashcams or CCTV footage that could offer additional clues in identifying the suspect. Entwistle emphasized the importance of anyone in the area or with relevant footage coming forward, affirming their commitment to locating the person responsible for this needless death.
Following the tragedy, tributes have been shared for Kondor, who was originally from Romania. Friends and colleagues remembered him as a beloved and hardworking person. Mike Neill, a former colleague, highlighted Kondor’s dedication to both work and family. Neill has organized a GoFundMe campaign to help Kondor’s family with funeral expenses and other related costs, raising over $8,800.
Amazon expressed its condolences, stating that its thoughts are with Claudiu’s family, friends, and colleagues, and affirmed their support for the ongoing investigation.
The police continue to follow leads, increasing their presence in Wortley and Belle Isle for door-to-door inquiries. Forensic teams have also been deployed to collect potential evidence from the crime scenes.
