A driver has admitted killing a teenager by crashing into him as he waited at a bus stop to go to school.
Freddie Coleman, 15, died as he stood by the road in Stock, Essex, while a second child suffered life-changing injuries but survived.
Both had been heading to Mayflower High School in nearby Billericay, where they were students.
During a short hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court today, Stephen Mahebadevan, 26, of Chelmsford, admitted causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Judge Mary Loram KC released the defendant, pictured for the first time today, on bail to return for sentencing next month but told him he faced a ‘significant period of imprisonment’.
She added: ‘I can’t think of a more tragic loss – and this court deals with a lot of tragedy.’
No information was given about the defendant’s driving during the hearing but details should emerge when he is sentenced.
Freddie was pronounced dead at the scene after being struck by the car on the morning of November 3, 2023.
Freddie Coleman, 15, died as he stood by the road in Stock, Essex, while a second child suffered life-changing injuries but survived
Stephen Mahebadevan, 26, of Chelmsford, today admitted causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving
The injured teenager was airlifted to hospital from the scene in a critical condition.
Freddie’s heartbroken parents, Jason and Jo, paid tribute at the time to their son, describing him as a ‘kind, happy, funny boy’ who was ‘loved by everybody’.
They also asked for privacy during this ‘dreadful time’.
Scores of flowers, candles and messages were left at Mayflower High School by devastated friends and locals.
A book of condolence was also opened at the school and a fundraiser set up to support Freddie’s family raised more than £25,000 in just 48 hours.
The school said in a statement issued on social media: ‘Following the tragic news on Friday we want to thank all of our community for their overwhelming support.
‘Should students, staff, or members of the public wish to leave any flowers then they are welcome to. There is a memorial of flowers by our sign at the front of the school.
‘We will also have a book of condolence available in main reception should you wish to leave a message.’
Freddie’s heartbroken parents Jason and Jo paid tribute at the time to their son, describing him as a ‘kind, happy, funny boy’ who was ‘loved by everybody’
Mayflower High School opened a book of condolences and a fundraiser set up to support Freddie’s family raised more than £25,000 in just 48 hours. Floral tributes were also left outside the school
Damian Lee, headteacher at Mayflower High School, described the teenager as ‘much loved and respected’.
Detective Inspector Mark Fraser, of Essex Police, said at the time: ‘This tragic incident has had a huge impact on the community. Our detectives are carrying out a number of enquiries, including reviewing dashcam footage and CCTV to determine the circumstances around this collision.
Around two dozen of Freddie’s family turned up to court for the hearing today, with another ten attending on a video link.
Many wept as Mahebadevan admitted the offences.