Man from Stoke-on-Trent admits causing death by dangerous driving
51-year-old Christopher Deaville died after being struck by a stolen car in Penkhull
A man from Stoke-on-Trent has admitted causing the death of a man following a collision in the city.
Leon Salt, aged 21, of Stoke, has pleaded guilty to causing the death of 51-year-old Christopher Deaville after he struck him with a stolen car in Penkhull.
It happened on Newcastle Lane on 11th April 2025. Leon Salt was driving a black Mini Cooper that had been stolen just a few days before.
When Christopher crossed the road at about 9pm, Salt was overtaking another car at speed. He collided into Christopher, killing him at the scene, and then drove off.
The Mini was found just over a mile away after it had been dumped in an alleyway between Birks Street and Campbell Road. It was using false plates at the time and was badly damaged.
Salt also admitted the following offences at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Monday 28th July: driving a motor vehicle dangerously, failing to stop after a road accident, failing to report an accident, two counts of driving without third party insurance and two counts of driving otherwise in accordance with a licence.
He also admitted escaping from lawful custody, two counts of assault by beating of an emergency worker and two counts of handling stolen goods.
Detective Inspector Laura Agu worked on the case. She said:
“I’m pleased that we’ve been able to secure closure for Christopher’s family and friends after such a horrific incident.
“We put the pressure on Salt to come forward and face up to what he had done. Now, he’s going to face justice for devastating the lives of everyone who knew Christopher.”
Salt has been remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on 3 October 2025.