A driver pleaded guilty to causing a fatal crash in Stock, Essex, killing a 15-year-old boy and injuring another teenager
Driver Admits Charges After Fatal Crash Involving Teenagers
Stephen Mahebadevan, 26, was driving his Suzuki Swift on Stock Road, Stock, at around 8:20 AM on November 3, 2023, when the crash occurred.
Freddie Coleman, 15, and another teenage boy were walking to Mayflower High School in Billericay on a footpath next to the road.
CCTV footage showed that Mahebadevan lost control of his car while negotiating a left-hand bend, mounting the footpath and colliding with both boys, according to Essex Police.
Details of the Incident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Driver | Stephen Mahebadevan, 26 |
| Victim | Freddie Coleman, 15 |
| Location | Stock Road, Stock |
| Date | November 3, 2023 |
| Charges | Causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving |
| Court Appearance | Chelmsford Crown Court |
| Sentencing Date | February 6 |
Freddie was knocked into the path of an oncoming van, which had no time to react. He tragically died at the scene, while the second boy suffered life-changing injuries.
Essex Police’s investigation reviewed vehicles, dash cam footage, CCTV, and witness statements to understand Mahebadevan’s loss of control.
Mahebadevan, of Orford Crescent, Chelmsford, admitted to the charges when he appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday.
Investigation and Statements
Detective Sergeant Sam Nason, who led the investigation, expressed condolences to the victims’ families. He stated, “The thoughts of my whole team remain firmly with the family and friends of the two victims in this case.”
Nason described the incident as “utterly tragic” and noted its impact on many lives. He acknowledged the families’ patience and dignity during the lengthy process.
He added, “It was really important we built a concrete case, standing on firm forensic evidence, which helped us avoid what would have been a traumatic trial for everyone involved.”
Mahebadevan admitted to his dangerous actions that morning and can now expect to face prison. Nason concluded, “No prison sentence will ever bring Freddie back, but my hope is that it may help provide a degree of justice and answers for his family.”
Mahebadevan will be sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on February 6.
