A teenager has been sentenced to five years in a young offenders institution after causing the death of his friend in a car crash, just 24 hours after passing his driving test. Corey Owen Cooper, 17, lost control of his grandfather's Fiat Grand Punto while performing dangerous manoeuvres known as 'doughnuts' in a Sheffield car park. The incident occurred in November 2023, resulting in the death of his friend Josh Atkins and serious injuries to another passenger.

During the sentencing at Sheffield Crown Court, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC described Cooper's driving as “deplorable” and indicated that he was likely trying to impress his friends. The court heard that Cooper was speeding at approximately 53mph in a 20mph zone on Myers Grove Lane when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a metal barrier.

Prosecutor Ian West detailed the events leading up to the crash, stating that witnesses reported Cooper's reckless driving earlier that evening, with one friend estimating speeds of around 80mph near Bradfield School. A girl following Cooper's car described how it “just shot off” before the crash, and she later found the vehicle overturned, with Cooper in shock, exclaiming, “What have I done, what have I done, I’ve killed my best friend.”

The court was informed that the dashboard warning lights of the Fiat had been illuminated for 90 minutes prior to the crash, indicating issues with the ABS system. Judge Richardson KC emphasised the tragic consequences of Cooper's actions, stating, “A young life has been ended. Another two lives have been ruined. For what? Showing off to friends.”

Josh Atkins died on his father Gavin's birthday, a loss that has deeply affected his family. In remembrance of Josh, his family and friends held a charity walk in Hillsborough Park, celebrating his life. Josh's aunt, Claire Chapman, reflected on the event, saying, “It was a great afternoon, even with the rain. We all loved to see so many of Josh's friends turn out for him.”

In a poignant act of generosity, Josh's family decided to donate his organs after it became clear he would not survive his injuries. Sheffield Teaching Hospitals confirmed that his heart, liver, and kidneys have saved the lives of four other individuals. Ms Chapman expressed the family's bittersweet comfort, stating, “We’ve lost Josh and that has been devastating for our family, but we take huge comfort that his organs have helped others and that his heart is still beating.”

Cooper pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and was warned by the judge that he would face prison time upon his return for sentencing. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving, particularly among young drivers.