Uninsured And Disqualified Driver Admits Killing Two In A66 Crash
An uninsured and disqualified driver has admitted killing two people in a head-on collision on the A66 in West Cumbria after driving while unfit through drugs.
Kevin Hooton, 42, appeared at Carlisle Crown Court by video link from custody on 2 November and pleaded guilty to six offences connected with the collision at Broughton Cross, west of Cockermouth. The crash happened shortly after 6.30pm on Saturday, 12 July 2025, when his westbound Audi A3 crossed into the eastbound carriageway and struck a black Ford Focus.
The victims were 35-year-old Abby Storey, a mother of three from Salterbeck, Workington, and 34-year-old Marty Roberts, from Bootle, Merseyside. Ms Storey was travelling as a passenger in the Ford Focus, while Mr Roberts was a passenger in Hooton’s Audi. Both died from chest injuries, according to evidence heard at an inquest.
Hooton also admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving to Andrew Holding, who was driving the Ford Focus and was Ms Storey’s partner. His other guilty pleas included causing death by driving while disqualified, causing death while uninsured and causing death by careless driving when unfit through drugs. Prosecutor Tim Evans told the court that Hooton was found to be over the prescribed drug limit following the collision.
Families of both victims paid tribute to their loved ones. Ms Storey’s family remembered her as a devoted mother, loving partner and cherished sister who brought laughter and joy to those around her. Mr Roberts’ family described him as a much-loved person whose distinctive humour and calm nature touched the lives of many.
Sentencing was postponed to allow relatives to attend court and for victim impact statements to be updated. Judge Nicholas Barker ordered a probation service pre-sentence report examining Hooton’s background, personal circumstances and the risk he may pose to the public. Hooton was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court on 21 December 2026.
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