Unlicensed Teenager Sentenced to Six-and-a-Half Years for Fatal Hit-and-Run
A teenager who had never taken a single driving lesson has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in a young offenders' institution for causing the death of a 17-year-old boy in a horrific hit-and-run incident. Harley Hough, 17, was driving a BMW at 58mph when he struck Alex Woodward, who was crossing the road with two friends on his way to a shop in Bentilee, Stoke-on-Trent.
Details of the Tragic Collision
The incident occurred around 6pm on October 17 on Dawlish Drive. Hough overtook a Volkswagen Polo at high speed before colliding with Alex, who was thrown 47 metres from the point of impact. Alex sustained serious injuries and tragically passed away at the Royal Stoke University Hospital in the early hours of the following day. Shockingly, Hough did not stop at the scene.
Instead, he drove to Park Hall Country Park, where he set fire to the BMW in an attempt to destroy evidence. He only handed himself in to police two days after the fatal crash. During his police interview, Hough admitted he had never received any formal driving lessons and controversially claimed that Alex had "chanced it" by trying to cross the road.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Hough, from Longton, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop after an accident, failing to report an accident, driving without a licence, and driving without insurance. His identity was revealed after StokeonTrentLive successfully challenged reporting restrictions that had previously protected his anonymity.
In mitigation, Steve Hennessy highlighted that Hough has no prior convictions and has expressed deep remorse for his actions. He stated, "He expresses his deep shame, regret and remorse." Despite this, Judge Graeme Smith imposed a sentence of six-and-a-half years detention in a young offenders' institution. Additionally, Hough was disqualified from driving for eight years and must pass an extended test before he can legally drive again.
Community Impact and Aftermath
The case has sparked significant concern in the local community regarding road safety and the dangers of unlicensed driving. Alex Woodward's death has left his family and friends devastated, with the senseless loss highlighting the severe consequences of reckless behaviour on the roads. Hough's actions, including fleeing the scene and destroying evidence, have been condemned as aggravating factors in the sentencing.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the legal obligations of all road users. The extended driving ban and required test aim to prevent future incidents, but the emotional scars from this avoidable tragedy will linger for years to come.
