Teenagers' car torn in half by 80mph horror smash

Unlicensed, under-age driver Michael Gallagher (16) and his passengers Thomas Hughes (15) and Antonia Browne (14) died after suffering multiple injuries in the accident at Conisbrough last January.

A hearing in Doncaster was told that the Honda Civic being driven by Michael, a keen amateur go-kart racer from Warmsworth, was torn in two after ploughing into a tree off the A630 at around 4.30am on January 30.

Paramedics battled to save the teenagers but Thomas, who was Michael's cousin, and Antonia died at the scene.

Michael died shortly after his arrival at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

Toxicology reports revealed that he had been drinking alcohol but was below the legal drink driving limit at the time of the accident.

Crash investigator Pc John Glossop revealed that Michael—who had taken the car without his mother’s permission—could have been travelling in excess of 80mph when the collision occurred on the 60mph limited stretch of road.

Doncaster Deputy Coroner, Mr Fred Curtis, recorded a verdict that Antonia Browne and Thomas Hughes were unlawfully killed.

Recording his verdict of accidental death relating to Michael Gallagher, he added: "I am satisfied beyond any reasonable doubt that this was a case where death was brought about by dangerous driving.

"Hopefully this case will cause young people to pull back before indulging in this kind of silly behaviour in future."

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