Teen admits causing death by dangerous driving in Stoke-on-Trent
17-year-old pleads guilty to fatal crash involving Alex Woodward
Last updated 8th Dec 2025
A 17-year-old has admitted causing the death by dangerous driving of Alex Woodward in a crash in Stoke-on-Trent.
The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty on Monday 8th December at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court to causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop after an accident, failing to report the accident, driving without a licence and driving without insurance.
It follows a fatal crash on Dawlish Drive, Bentilee, at around 6.05pm on 17th October. The teenager was driving a black BMW 1 Series at excessive speed and overtook another vehicle. Alex, also 17, was crossing the road at the time and was struck.
Alex was taken to hospital but sadly died in the early hours of 18th October.
The driver failed to stop at the scene but handed himself in two days later. During his admission, he confirmed he did not have a driving licence or insurance and was unaware of the road’s speed limit.
Following his court appearance, the teenager has been remanded in custody ahead of his sentencing on 25th February.
Detective Inspector Becky Collier from Staffordshire Police said: “I’m pleased that we’ve been able to secure this outcome for Alex’ family who have been left devastated by what happened.
“We are determined to take robust action against those responsible for high-harm offences in Staffordshire.”