Family tributes to two teenagers who died in Marston crash caused by friend
Following the conclusion of proceedings, their families have released tributes
Last updated 10th Apr 2026
The families of two boys who died in a crash caused by their friend driving carelessly in a Lincolnshire village have paid tribute to them.
Harrison Carter, 18 and George Stephenson, 17, were passengers in 18-year-old Madeleine Lonsdale's car.
She was driving at over 75mph whilst travelling towards Marston on Toll Bar Road at about 1.40am on Friday 20th June 2025.
The car left the carriageway and collided with a tree on a right-hand bend.
Harrison, who was the front seat passenger, and George, the rear seat passenger, died at the scene.
Lonsdale pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by careless driving and was sentenced to 14 months in prison last month.
Following the conclusion of these proceedings, tributes have been released to the two boys who died.
In a statement Harrison’s parents, Sarah and David, said:
“Our beloved son, Harrison (Harry), was also a devoted brother to Owen and William, acting as their protector, encourager, voice of reason and confidant. He was resilient, generous without needing applause, authentically charming, honest & humble. He was motivated by meaning, not ego."
They continued “Harry had the most wonderful smile and the biggest heart giving love and time unconditionally to anyone who needed it. Harry saw the good in everyone and made a lasting impression on those whose lives he touched.
“Whilst the loss we feel is immeasurable, we also recognise that grief is the price we pay for love. Harry leaves a legacy of pure kindness - We could all benefit from being a little more like Harry."
George’s parents, Vicki and Bruce said:
“As a family, we continue to be devastated by the loss of our youngest child, George, and know that this pain is something that we will endure for the rest of our lives. We are grateful for the 17 wonderful years that we had with him and will remember him for the love and laughter he brought, not just to our lives, but also to many others.
“George was a lovable, witty and intelligent young man who cared deeply about his friends and loved ones, often putting his own needs behind those of others. He was unassuming and modest, preferring to minimise his own achievements, and he acted as his friends’ greatest cheerleader. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, socialising, and the freedom that passing his driving test gave him."
They continued: “Losing George in such a senseless and traumatic way has shattered our family. He was the final part of our jigsaw puzzle, and, without him, we can never be complete. There is now a numbness in our lives, as we have already experienced the worst thing that could happen to us.
“Waking up each day and remembering that he is gone brings us fresh pain, and the knowledge that we will never hear his voice, see his smile, or be enveloped in one of his wonderful hugs is utterly heartbreaking.
“George was generous, charming and kind, and he brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He will always be in our hearts and thoughts as we attempt to live our lives without him. He was, literally and metaphorically, our BFG and he truly leaves a giant-sized hole in all our lives."