A disqualified motorist has been sentenced to prison for causing the death of his passenger in a tragic collision.
Levi Baxter, 21, of Cunningham Close, Cambridge, was driving a black Skoda Fabia when it crashed into a tree on West End, Wilburton, near Ely, at approximately 09:50 BST on 25 October.
The impact led to the death of his passenger, 19-year-old Ben Bland, a father-of-one from Cambridge, who tragically passed away in hospital two days later.
Initially, Baxter misled police, claiming he was a rear-seat passenger and that the driver had fled the scene.
However, after officers discovered the car keys in his possession, he was arrested. Baxter later admitted to causing death by driving while disqualified, uninsured, and unlicensed.
On Tuesday, at Cambridge Crown Court, Baxter was sentenced to four years and six months in prison and banned from driving until 2035.
Baxter sustained minor injuries in the crash but denied responsibility until confronted with evidence.
Paying tribute to her son, Mr Bland’s mother expressed her profound grief: “It truly breaks my heart and soul that following the tragic collision, my youngest baby boy, my rock, my everything, who was always by my side, devastatingly passed away.”
Ben Bland, who leaves behind a three-year-old son, was remembered by his family and friends for his loving and supportive nature.
Detective Sergeant Shona Birkby of Cambridgeshire Police commented on the sentencing, saying: “Whilst this sentence will never compensate for the loss felt by Ben’s family, I hope justice being done sends a message that we will prosecute those who drive dangerously in Cambridgeshire.
“Our thoughts continue to be with Ben, his family and friends.”
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of driving unlawfully, highlighting the devastating impact it can have on families and communities.
