bbc news: Sunderland teenager admits killing woman in motorbike crash
A teenager has admitted causing the death of an 86-year-old woman after colliding with her while she used a zebra crossing in Sunderland. The victim, Gloria Stephenson of Silksworth, died from injuries sustained in the collision on 16 May 2025 ET. The rider pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court and will be sentenced on 15 May 2026 ET.
Court plea and charges
The defendant, identified in court as Billy Stokoe, was 18 at the time of the collision and is now 19. He entered a guilty plea to causing death by dangerous driving. Earlier hearings had also recorded admissions relating to driving an unregistered vehicle and driving without insurance.
Magistrates granted him bail at the hearing and imposed an interim driving disqualification. The judge adjourned the case to allow time for a pre-sentence report and made clear that all sentencing options remain open. The offence of causing death by dangerous driving carries a maximum penalty that can, in the most serious cases, include a lengthy custodial sentence.
Collision details and victim profile
The collision took place on Burdon Road on 16 May 2025 ET as the victim used a zebra crossing. Court material described the motorcycle involved as an unregistered electric model. CCTV evidence shown in the proceedings was said to indicate the rider failed to slow when approaching the crossing.
Witnesses told the court they saw the rider travelling at speed and using a mobile device immediately before the impact. The prosecution also presented material indicating the motorcycle was uninsured. Emergency services attended the scene, and the woman was treated but later died of her injuries.
The woman, Gloria Stephenson, was described by family members as having been active and independent. Relatives said she still walked extensively, enjoyed travel and family life, and had been full of plans. One family statement used in court noted she had "years left to give her love and share her energy and zest for life with everyone who knew her. " The loss has been described by those close to her as devastating.
Community reaction and next steps
Local reaction has focused on concerns about the increasing presence of powerful electric two-wheelers on urban streets and the risks they pose to pedestrians. Family members urged action so that similar tragedies do not recur, calling for measures to improve safety at crossings and stronger enforcement of licensing and insurance requirements for electric motorcycles and e-bikes.
The court will receive a pre-sentence report ahead of the sentencing hearing on 15 May 2026 ET, which will examine the defendant's background and the circumstances leading to the crash. The judge warned that a range of sentencing options, up to and including immediate custody, remain available. The defendant remains on bail subject to conditions set by the court.
As preparations continue for sentencing, the case has renewed public debate about enforcement, rider behaviour and pedestrian protection in built-up areas. Authorities have been urged to consider whether changes to licensing, registration and policing could reduce the likelihood of similar incidents in future.
