A teenager who caused a fatal crash while performing ‘doughnuts’ in a car park has been sentenced to five years in a young offenders institution. Corey Owen Cooper, then 17, lost control of his car, resulting in the death of his friend Josh Atkins in November 2023. The incident occurred in Sheffield, Yorkshire, where Cooper was driving recklessly at around 53mph on 20mph roads, with the judge criticizing his behavior as an attempt to impress friends.
During the tragic event, Cooper executed a ‘doughnut’ maneuver in a car park before the fatal collision, which involved the rear of the vehicle rotating around the opposite end, leaving a circular skid mark. The court heard that Cooper was driving his grandfather’s Fiat Grand Punto at the time of the accident.
In his sentencing remarks, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC highlighted the consequences of Cooper’s actions, emphasizing the loss of a young life and the severe injuries inflicted on another passenger due to reckless driving. Cooper had pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious harm to another passenger, leading to his incarceration.
Witnesses reported that the car was speeding at approximately 53mph in a 20mph zone before the crash occurred on Myers Grove Lane. Following the collision with a metal barrier, Cooper’s vehicle flipped, with him expressing remorse and disbelief over the tragic outcome. Reports indicated that the car had been exhibiting mechanical issues, including malfunctioning ABS warning lights, prior to the accident.
Additionally, the victim’s family and friends honored his memory through a charity walk in Hillsborough Park, reflecting on Josh’s life as an avid fisherman. Josh’s organs were donated following his passing, benefiting four individuals in need of transplants. His family found solace in knowing that Josh’s organs had saved lives, with his aunt expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perpetuate her nephew’s legacy through organ donation.
