Łukasz Żak Sentenced to 20 Years for Tragic Trasa Łazienkowska Crash

The District Court in Warsaw-Śródmieście sentenced Łukasz Żak to 20 years in prison on July 16, 2025, for a fatal, high-speed collision that resulted in one death and multiple injuries.

The Verdict and Penalties

On Thursday, July 16, the court sentenced Łukasz Żak to 20 years of imprisonment, marking a significant penalty under tightened road traffic regulations. The ruling includes a lifetime driving ban and a 10,000 PLN fine paid to the Fund for Assistance to Victims and Post-Penitentiary Assistance. Żak is eligible for parole only after serving 15 years.

Details of the September 2024 Collision

The accident occurred on September 15, 2024, on the Trasa Łazienkowska in Warsaw. A collision between a Volkswagen and a Ford resulted in the death of a 37-year-old father. His wife and their two children, aged four and eight, were hospitalized, along with a passenger from Żak’s vehicle. Experts determined Żak was intoxicated and driving at 226 km/h, well above the 80 km/h speed limit, while filming his actions on a mobile phone.

Prosecution and Lack of Remorse

Prosecutor Katarzyna Niemiec-Rudnicka welcomed the sentence, noting it aligns with the prosecution’s request. She emphasized the absence of mitigating circumstances, citing Żak’s history of prior offenses, including driving under the influence and violating court-ordered driving bans. The court noted that after the crash, the defendant failed to assist anyone and attempted to influence witnesses while in custody.

Defense Arguments and Judicial Context

Defense attorney Izabela Ławińska argued that her client became a symbol of social outrage, potentially prejudicing the proceedings. She maintained that the defendant surrendered to police in Lübeck, Germany, and expressed remorse in a written statement. The defense argued for a proportional sentence, suggesting the public atmosphere pressured the judicial process.