17-Year-Old Admits to Causing Death of Pedestrian in Stoke-on-Trent

A 17-year-old boy has confessed to causing the death of pedestrian Alex Woodward in a hit-and-run incident that occurred on October 17, 2023, in Stoke-on-Trent. The tragic event unfolded as Woodward was crossing Dawlish Drive when he was struck by a speeding BMW. He succumbed to his injuries hours later in hospital.

The defendant, whose identity cannot be disclosed due to his age, admitted to multiple charges, including causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop after an accident, and driving without a valid licence or insurance. According to a statement from Staffordshire Police, the young driver was operating a black BMW 1 Series at excessive speed when he overtook another vehicle and collided with Woodward.

Witnesses reported that Woodward was crossing the street at the time of the impact. Following the collision, the driver failed to stop and continued driving. He subsequently turned himself in to authorities two days later, admitting his role in the incident and revealing that he was unaware of the speed limit on Dawlish Drive.

During the court proceedings, it emerged that the young driver had no valid driver’s licence and was operating the vehicle without insurance. The case is now set to proceed to sentencing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in the coming year.

This incident has raised serious concerns regarding road safety and the consequences of reckless driving. The local community is mourning the loss of Alex Woodward, whose life was tragically cut short. As the court prepares for sentencing, the impact of this case on the community and the legal implications for young drivers continue to be significant topics of discussion.