Teenager jailed for causing death of friend in Newcastle car crash

Billy Conroy, 17, has been sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison for causing the death of his 15-year-old friend, Conner Loder, in a car crash in Newcastle. Conroy was already banned from driving when he lost control of a Mazda 6. The crash occurred on June 10, 2024, after Conroy drove recklessly, reaching speeds of around 50 mph in a 30 mph zone. He fled the scene, leaving Conner, who was unconscious and later died from severe injuries. Conroy pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including causing death by dangerous driving. He has a history of serious driving offenses and will be banned from driving for over eight years following his release.