Teenager killed in high-speed car crash caused by 19-year-old driver
Driver was sentenced to over five years in prison
A teenager's life was tragically cut short when 19-year-old Leon Callaghan lost control of his car, leading to a fatal accident near Junction 9 of the M65.
The crash took place in the early hours of 2nd October 2024, when Callaghan was driving at speeds of up to 113mph in a dedicated exit lane.
His attempt to rejoin the main carriageway resulted in the vehicle striking a bullnose point, hitting the central reservation, and rolling several times before stopping on an embankment.
Demi Leigh Davies, aged 17 from Darwen, was pronounced dead at hospital following the crash.
She had recently been offered her first job at a care home, a position her mother described as perfect for her caring nature.
Two other passengers, girls aged 17 and 19, sustained serious injuries but have since recovered, along with Callaghan who was also seriously injured.
Callaghan later claimed he had blacked out and was unaware of the excessive speed, suggesting his foot was stuck between the pedals.
Admitting to causing death by dangerous driving, Callaghan appeared at Preston Crown Court on 26th June , where he was sentenced to five years and three months in prison.
He is also banned from driving for seven years following his release and is required to take an extended test before driving again.
Demi's mother Gemma expressed her anguish in a court-read statement, emphasising the profound and ongoing heartbreak of losing her daughter.
She remembered Demi as a "beautiful, funny, caring and selfless teenager" who brought joy to others.
Detective Constable Olivia Maidment stated, "Demi Leigh was clearly a much-loved young woman with her whole life ahead of her and my thoughts today are with all of her loved ones."
She added that the sentence might provide Demi's family with some sense of justice.