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Sunderland E-Bike Rider, 19, Admits Causing Death by Dangerous Driving

A pre-sentence report now precedes a May hearing to decide his punishment.

Overview

  • Billy Stokoe, 19, pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court to causing death by dangerous driving.
  • Prosecutors said he struck 86-year-old Gloria Stephenson on a zebra crossing on Burdon Road in Sunderland in May 2025, and she died at the scene.
  • Court evidence included CCTV and dash-cam footage showing he did not slow at the crossing and left the scene, with witnesses reporting speeding and mobile-phone use.
  • He had previously admitted causing death while unlicensed and causing death while uninsured.
  • Judge Robert Adams ordered a pre-sentence report, imposed an interim driving ban, granted bail, and set sentencing for May 15, as the family urged measures to prevent similar e-bike incidents.