Kane Gornall admits causing death by dangerous driving after fatal Witham crash
Guilty plea in tragic car crash
Kane Gornall, 27, pleaded guilty at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday 4 April to causing death by dangerous driving. He will be sentenced on Thursday 20 April.
Deadly crash on Witham Road
In the early hours of 25 September 2021, Gornall’s blue Ford Fiesta veered off Witham Road and smashed into a tree shortly after midnight. Gornall had been driving with two friends after a night out when the fatal collision happened.
Passenger dies at scene
Tragically, 25-year-old passenger Jake Blease died instantly at the scene. Jake’s family paid a heartfelt tribute, saying: “Jake loved life and lived it to the fullest, he had a cheeky smile and a laugh no-one could ever forget. He was adored by his two little sisters and loved by everyone. He was a great son, stepson, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. He touched so many people’s lives and was blessed to have such a wide range of friends, none of whom will ever forget his kindness or his infectious personality.”
Investigation leads to arrest
Kane Gornall, from Flemming Way, Witham, was arrested at the scene by the Roads Policing Unit. The Serious Collision Unit launched a full investigation, resulting in Gornall being summonsed to Colchester Magistrates’ Court on 7 March to face charges.
Police offer condolences
PC Alan Marks of the Serious Collision Unit said: “Today, my thoughts are with Jake Blease’s family who have lost their loved one as a result of this collision. Jake’s family and friends will have to live with the tragic consequences of Kane Gornall’s actions that night.”
