A reckless driver has been sentenced to five years in prison after causing a fatal collision that claimed the life of his 17-year-old friend in Much Wenlock. The tragic incident occurred when the vehicle, which was found to be in a dangerous condition, smashed into a tree at high speed.
Details of the Fatal Collision
On November 28, 2023, Sean Cox, aged 21, was driving a Vauxhall Corsa on the B4376 in Much Wenlock with his passenger, Madison Evans, aged 17. Just minutes after picking her up, Cox lost control of the car, which subsequently crashed into a tree. The impact was so severe that Madison was ejected from the vehicle and suffered fatal injuries, being pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation Reveals Critical Failures
An extensive investigation by West Mercia Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit uncovered alarming details about the state of the car and the driver's behaviour. Initially, Cox claimed he had been driving at approximately 65mph on the 60mph road. However, forensic analysis revealed that the speedometer was fixed at 70mph post-crash, with investigators estimating his actual speed to be around 73mph at the time of the accident.
Furthermore, both front tyres were found to be below the legal tread depth requirement. This significant defect meant there was inadequate grip between the tyres and the road surface, which was wet at the time, contributing directly to the loss of control.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Sean Cox, of Severn Way in Cressage, Shrewsbury, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving. He initially denied the charge but entered a guilty plea in November 2025, just ahead of the trial's commencement. On Monday, January 26, 2026, he appeared at Shrewsbury Crown Court for sentencing.
The court handed down a five-year prison sentence and imposed a driving ban of eight years and four months. In delivering the sentence, the judge emphasised the gravity of Cox's actions, highlighting the preventable nature of the tragedy given the vehicle's condition and the excessive speed.
Police Response and Family Impact
Following the sentencing, PC Steve Wootton from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit expressed his satisfaction with the outcome. He stated, "I am pleased with the sentence the judge handed to Cox yesterday, as it means a dangerous driver has been taken off the roads. Cox’s reckless actions that evening meant that Madison; a young woman who had her whole life ahead of her, sadly lost her life."
PC Wootton further commented on the driver's culpability, noting, "He chose to drive in the manner that he did, knowing his tyres were not in any condition deemed to be legal. I hope this sentence sends a strong message to anyone who thinks it is okay to drive dangerously in a car not fit to be on the road, because it is not."
He also paid tribute to Madison's family and friends, acknowledging their patience throughout the investigation and expressing hope that the sentencing would provide some closure, allowing them to move forward with their lives. The case underscores the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and the importance of vehicle maintenance and adherence to speed limits.
