A 19-year-old man has appeared in court accused of causing the death of an 86-year-old woman by dangerous driving while riding an electric bike in Sunderland.
Court Hears Details of Fatal Collision
South Tyneside Magistrates' Court heard that Billy Stokoe was allegedly speeding and using a mobile phone when he collided with Gloria Stephenson on a zebra crossing. The incident occurred on May 16, 2025, at around 2.50 pm in the Tyne and Wear city.
Prosecutor Chike Anieto told the court that dashcam footage from a passing motorist captured the moment. The footage reportedly showed Stokoe did not slow down for the crossing and struck Mrs Stephenson directly. The great-grandmother was with her daughter and grandson at the time and died at the scene.
Multiple Serious Charges Laid
Stokoe faces a series of charges in connection with the fatal e-bike accident. The most serious is causing death by dangerous driving, an offence which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The other charges include:
- Causing death by driving without due care while over the drug drive limit for a cannabis compound.
- Causing death by driving while unlicensed.
- Causing death by driving while uninsured.
- Failing to stop after a road accident.
- Failing to wear protective headgear.
The prosecution stated there were six witnesses to the event, and police have conducted intensive forensic examinations alongside a post-mortem report.
Family Pays Tribute to 'Vibrant' Great-Grandmother
In a heartfelt statement, Gloria Stephenson's family described their profound loss. They said they were "devastated" at the death of their "vibrant, active, beautiful, and intelligent mam, grandma, mother-in-law and great grandma".
"We want to make absolutely clear that our mam was full of life," the family emphasised. "She was active, fit, healthy, and had years left to give her love and share her energy and zest for life with everyone who knew her." They also thanked those who assisted at the scene.
Stokoe, who gave his address as of no fixed abode, spoke only to confirm his name and age during the hearing. He is now due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on February 4, 2026.
