Marcus Fakana, a 19-year-old British teenager, died in a car crash in Tottenham, north London, just three months after his release from Dubai prison. The teenager had been jailed in the United Arab Emirates for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl while he was 18.
He received a royal pardon in July and returned home to the UK. The case had sparked international attention due to Dubai's strict laws regarding sexual relationships with minors.
Fatal crash details
The crash occurred at 1am on Friday, October 3, on The Roundway in Tottenham, according to Daily Star reports. The car had failed to stop for police before the collision, and a 19-year-old driver was arrested in connection with the incident.
Marcus received first aid at the scene but died after being rushed to hospital. The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for further information about the circumstances.
Release and advocacy efforts
Marcus had been in Dubai with his parents when a "holiday romance blossomed" with another Londoner during their stay from late August. The girl's mother later reported the relationship to Dubai police after seeing pictures and messages, leading to his arrest at his hotel.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum personally granted the reprieve, allowing Marcus to return home. His family had posted on Instagram expressing their relief: "We are grateful to share that Marcus is now home safe with us. This has been an incredibly difficult time, and we thank everyone who supported us through it."
Tribute to his character
Radha Stirling, CEO of campaign group Detained in Dubai which helped secure his release, paid tribute to the teenager. "He'd shown strength and courage, and he was excited and optimistic about his future," she said.
"It is devastating that Marcus's journey has been cut short so soon after he began to rebuild his life. Regaining his freedom brought Marcus joy, peace, and a renewed sense of purpose."
Stirling added: "Marcus's passing is also a reminder of how precious and irreplaceable life is."
Sources used: "Metro", "Mirror", "Daily Star", "Express" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
