Havant Man Jailed Over Payton Sparks' Death
4 October 2013, 12:18 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50
A 19-year-old man, who pleaded guilty to causing the death of a 16-year-old girl in a crash in Leigh Park in May this year, has been jailed for 8 years.
Lewis Young, 19, of no fixed abode but from Havant, appeared before Portsmouth Crown Court on 9 September where he pleaded guilty to causing the death by dangerous driving of Payton Sparks and causing serious injury by dangerous driving to a 14-year-old boy passenger.
He also pleaded guilty to the charges of aggravated vehicle taking, driving whilst disqualified, driving whilst uninsured and making off without paying for petrol.
Young was charged following the collision which occurred when the Vauxhall Tigra he was driving came off the road and struck a building, part of Staunton Country Park premises, at 10.42pm on Saturday 25 May.
Speaking after he admitted the charges in court, senior investigating officer for the Roads Death Investigation Team, Sergeant Rob Heard, said:
“After taking the vehicle, Lewis Young set out on a path of action which was bound to end in disaster – and devastatingly, it did.
“It not only caused the tragic and untimely death of a 16-year-old girl but also seriously injured a 14-year-old boy passenger in the vehicle.
“Our thoughts remain with Payton’s family.”
Following the crash, Hampshire Police released a statement from Payton's mum, Lisa:
"Payton was such a treasure and such a big heart, so caring and loving. We will never be apart.
"Payton loved all types of music. She loved McDonalds food but her favourite food was chicken pot noodle with chicken and thyme Sensations.
"Payton had so many friends from so many places but she and I were best mates. We went everywhere together, drove everywhere together. She bossed me around but I know she loved me dearly which makes me strong.
"She was great auntie to her nephew Crus, and a great sister to Casey. All she had to give was love and laughter. She had so much for everyone. Never has anyone made me laugh so much.
"It just doesn't seem possible to have a life without her - I miss her so much and I will love her forever."
