A 19-year-old driver has pleaded guilty to causing the deaths of three teenagers in a car crash in Warwickshire, just five weeks after passing his driving test. Edward Spencer admitted three counts of causing death by careless driving and three counts of causing serious injury by careless driving at Warwick Crown Court on Monday.
The collision occurred on the B4035 Campden Road between Chipping Campden and Shipston-on-Stour in April 2023. Spencer lost control of his Ford Fiesta while returning home from school. The victims, Harry Purcell, 17, Tilly Seccombe, 16, and Frank Wormald, 16, all pupils at Chipping Campden School in Gloucestershire, died from their injuries.
A woman and two young children travelling in another car were seriously injured and continue to receive treatment for life-changing injuries. Police said the case highlights the devastating consequences of careless driving, particularly among newly qualified drivers.
Inspector Michael Huntley of Warwickshire Police stated: 'Edward Spencer had only passed his test five weeks prior to the collision and his careless actions cost the lives of three young people. Driving requires judgment and care, even more so when you lack experience.' He added that the incident has ruined many lives and extended thoughts to those affected.
