Overview

• At a July 7 inquest in Shrewsbury, Assistant Coroner Heath Westerman recorded that the March collision on Offoxey Road was caused by “the naïve actions” of a newly qualified driver.
• Witnesses said 17-year-old Jenson Bridges had passed his driving test the day before, turned off the car’s traction control and was estimated at 90–95 mph with three passengers on board.
• Forensic examinations confirmed the Audi A1 had a valid MOT, insurance and no mechanical defects, and that the driver was clear of drugs and alcohol.
• Despite Offoxey Road’s potholes and bumps, the coroner found that neither road conditions nor vehicle faults contributed to the crash.
• Families and road safety experts have said the verdict underscores gaps in post-test training and should prompt stricter graduated licensing rules for new drivers.