A 19-year-old has appeared before magistrates accused of causing the death of an 86-year-old great-grandmother by allegedly hitting her while speeding on an electric motorcycle at a pedestrian crossing.
Details of the Fatal Collision
Billy Stokoe, aged 19 and from Sunderland, faces multiple charges following the incident on May 16 last year. Prosecutors told South Tyneside Magistrates' Court that Stokoe was riding a Sur-Ron Light Bee electric motorcycle around 2pm when he collided with Gloria Stephenson as she used a zebra crossing. She was walking with her daughter and grandson at the time.
The court heard that dash cam footage from a car captured the moment of impact. Witnesses stated that Stokoe was allegedly speeding and holding a mobile phone as he approached the crossing and failed to slow down. The collision proved fatal for Ms Stephenson.
Prosecutor Chike Anieto said, "The defendant did not slow down at the crossing and collided with Gloria Stephenson. The witness evidence in this case is he was speeding and holding a mobile phone." Stokoe is also accused of failing to stop at the scene after the crash.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Stokoe is formally charged with causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving without due care while over the specified drug limit. Tests revealed traces of THC, a cannabis compound, above the legal limit in his blood at the time of his arrest.
Additional charges include causing death while driving a vehicle without a licence or insurance, failing to wear protective headgear, and failing to stop after a road accident.
During a short hearing, Stokoe, wearing a dark suit and supported by family members, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth. He covered his face with a scarf when entering and leaving the court building. Due to the seriousness of the offences, the case has been sent to Newcastle Crown Court for a further hearing next month.
A Family's Devastating Loss
In a heartfelt statement released after her death, Gloria Stephenson's family described their profound loss. They paid tribute to a "vibrant, active, beautiful and intelligent" mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and mother-in-law.
The family emphasised that, despite her age, Ms Stephenson was "full of life," adding: "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 expressed gratitude to those who assisted at the scene.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about road safety, the use of electric vehicles, and the tragic consequences of alleged dangerous driving.
