19-year-old found guilty of causing death of teenager in crash near Weston-super-Mare
Kasper Stankiewicz, from Congresbury was convicted of causing the death of 18-year-old Alfie Gray by driving dangerously along the A370 in 2024
A 19-year-old has been found guilty of causing the death of a teenager in a crash near Weston-super-Mare.
Kasper Stankiewicz, from Congresbury, was convicted at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday 13 May of causing the death of 18-year-old Alfie Gray by driving dangerously along the A370 in 2024.
The verdict was delivered by a jury following a three-day trial.
The court heard the incident took place on 10th September 2024 when Alfie Gray was returning home from work on his motorbike via the A370.
Stankiewicz was driving in the opposite direction and overtook another vehicle, crossing into the wrong lane and colliding with Alfie Gray who died as a result of his injuries.
During the trial, the defence argued that Stankiewicz's manoeuvre was not dangerous but instead due to a lack of care and attention however the jury reject this explanation and found him guilty.
Officer in the case, Designated Investigation Officer Zoe Wilkinson, said: “This was an incredibly tragic incident which resulted in the death of Alfie Gray, a much-loved son, brother and friend.
“To lose a child at the very beginning of their adult life is not something which can be put into words, and Alfie’s family have been trying to come to terms with the unimaginable loss of such a brilliant young man with his whole life ahead of him.
“Our thoughts remaining with Alfie’s friends and family and I have to praise the great strength and dignity the have shown throughout the investigation and trial.
“It was the defence’s case that the manoeuvre by Stankiewicz was not dangerous, but rather was the defendant driving without due care and attention. However, the jury has rejected this explanation and held Stankiewicz to account for his reckless actions which cost Alfie his life.”
Stankiewicz has been released on bail ahead of sentencing at Bristol Crown Court on 9th July.
The court has also granted a temporary driving ban against Stankiewicz until the sentencing hearing.