Man admits killing schoolboy by dangerous driving

A man has admitted crashing his car into a schoolboy and killing him while he waited at a bus stop.

Freddie Coleman, 15, died and a second child suffered life-changing injuries in the crash in Stock, Essex, which happened at about 08:20 GMT on 3 November 2023.

Both were on their way to Mayflower High School in nearby Billericay.

Stephen Mahebadevan, 26, of Orford Crescent in Chelmsford, admitted offences of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving at Chelmsford Crown Court.

He was released on bail and will be sentenced at the same court on 6 February.

Judge Mary Loram KC said of Freddie's death: "I can't think of a more tragic loss - and this court deals with a lot of tragedy."

She warned Mahebadevan he faced "a significant period of imprisonment".

About 25 members of Freddie's family were in court for the hearing on Monday, with about 10 more attending via a video link.

Many were in tears after Mahebadevan pleaded guilty in the dock.

In a statement released after their son's death, Freddie's parents said he was "loved by everyone".

Damian Lee, head teacher at Mayflower High School, described the teenager as "much loved and respected".

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