A man has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for causing a fatal crash while driving his mother’s car under the influence of alcohol. Oliver Hartley, 24, took his mother’s Audi A7 from her residence in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, after a night of drinking. The incident occurred on August 1, 2021, when he collided with Linda Stockdale’s vehicle on the A6055 between Catterick and Leeming, resulting in her death.
Hartley, from Meanwood, Leeds, admitted to causing death by careless driving instead of the initial charge of causing death by dangerous driving. His blood alcohol levels were found to be significantly above the legal limit during the incident. Additionally, he had driven without insurance and his mother’s permission.
Analysis of Hartley’s phone data revealed multiple trips on the A1(M) and the A6055, with speeds exceeding the limit. The court heard emotional statements from Linda Stockdale’s partner and daughter, expressing the profound impact of her loss on their lives and family.
The investigation concluded that Hartley’s reckless driving, exacerbated by intoxication, was the primary cause of the collision. DC Laura Cleary of the Major Collision Investigation Team emphasized Hartley’s disregard for road safety and highlighted the severe consequences of his actions.