NEWS: Teenage driver jailed after killing best friend just ONE day after passing driving test

A teenager has been sentenced to five years in a young offenders institution after causing the death of his best friend, 17-year-old Josh Atkins, in a high-speed crash in Sheffield.Corey Cooper, who had passed his driving test just one day before the crash in November 2023, lost control of his grandfather’s Fiat Grande Punto, hitting a barrier in a 20mph zone while driving at more than 50mph.

Sheffield Crown Court heard that Cooper had been speeding at up to 80mph, showing off with “doughnuts” in a car park earlier that evening. The crash killed Josh and seriously injured another passenger, Gabe Wiggett.

A witness described finding the car overturned, with Cooper crying, “What have I done? I’ve killed my best friend.”Josh’s mother, Tracy Atkins, said she would “never forgive” Cooper:> “It’s just destroyed our family. It doesn’t feel like home anymore.”

The tragedy also had a lasting impact on Josh’s father, who suffered a stroke months after the crash, which the family believe was caused by stress.

Josh’s organs were donated after his death, saving four lives — including one recipient whose daughter is the same age as Josh.The family are now calling for the government to introduce graduated driving licences, which would restrict new drivers from carrying passengers or driving late at night.

Sentencing Cooper, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC told him:>

“You were driving deplorably, almost certainly to show off. A young life has been ended, and others ruined. For what? Showing off to friends.”Josh’s family said they hope sharing his story will help prevent future tragedies.Read more below.