Devastating Crash Claims Teen Life: Driver Pleads Guilty to Fatal Drug-Driving

A somber atmosphere enveloped Bradford Crown Court as Kian Roberts, a 19-year-old from Keighley, admitted his culpability in a tragic drug-driving incident that claimed the life of 15-year-old Amelia Horsfall.

The devastating crash occurred on Skipton Road in Keighley on Friday, June 16, 2023.

Roberts, who was driving a Vauxhall Corsa, tragically lost control of the vehicle, resulting in the fatal injuries to Amelia Horsfall, who was a passenger.

During the court proceedings, Roberts pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving without insurance.

It was revealed that at the time of the collision, Roberts was under the influence of cannabis, having smoked the drug mere hours before getting behind the wheel of the uninsured car.

Police Constable Michael Terry of the Major Collision Enquiry Team provided crucial evidence, describing Roberts's reckless driving as a primary factor in the tragedy.

He detailed how Roberts had been driving at an excessive speed for the conditions, leading to the loss of control that precipitated the fatal impact.

Initially, Roberts denied drug use to attending officers at the scene. However, subsequent forensic tests confirmed the presence of cannabis in his system.

Confronted with the undeniable evidence, he later confessed to having smoked the illegal substance earlier on the day of the crash.

The profound impact of Amelia's loss resonated deeply, particularly with her mother, who bravely described her daughter as a “beautiful girl.” This heart-wrenching testimony underscored the immense void left by the senseless tragedy.

Roberts’s guilty plea marks a significant development in this painful case.

He has been remanded in custody, and the community now awaits the sentencing, which is scheduled to take place on Monday, July 15. The case serves as a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences of impaired driving and negligence on our roads.