Mum dies after young son killed by drunk driver on way home from school
A devastated mother has died a year after her young son lost his life to a drink-and-drug -fuelled driver.
Gemma Painter, 29, was left heartbroken after the death of six-year-old Leo last February. The young lad had just been picked up from school when the taxi he was travelling in was struck by Joe-Lewis Tyler, 34, behind the wheel of a stolen BMW 3 Series.
Tyler had consumed approximately five pints of lager and four rounds of Sambuca and Jagermeister shots before he and an accomplice took the vehicle.
Harrowing CCTV footage showed the moment the grey BMW crashed into the white Ford Mondeo taxi that was transporting Leo. The taxi driver, Courtney Hemming, 26, and 39-year-old Claire Adkins, who was accompanying Leo to his foster home, were pronounced dead at the scene.
Leo was taken to hospital urgently but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter, reports the Mirror.
At the time of the tragic incident, Gemma had been eagerly anticipating the return of Leo to live with her. While laying flowers where the accident occurred, she made a touching tribute to her son, who adored PAW Patrol.
She said: "He always had a smile on his face and was a bundle of fun. I'm heartbroken that I won't see him again. He loved PAW Patrol and I gave him a pair of pyjamas with his favourite characters on. He said he loved wearing 'Mummy's pyjamas'."
Following a struggle with mental health issues after her son's passing, Gemma died "peacefully" at her residence on June 30. Her bereaved family honoured Gemma's memory and disclosed that her organ donations have saved the lives of four individuals.
Gemma's sister Kenzie Beck shared: "She'll be greatly missed by many people. She was always kind and caring and would always stick up for anyone. I think it's nice to know that so many people loved and cared about her. She's gone on to save four people in organ donations."
Her mate Beth Munden is now putting together a fun day event to collect funds for Gemma's funeral and to highlight the importance of mental health.
Beth said: "Sadly on Monday 30th June 2025, Gemma passed away peacefully. She was the life of the party. She was hilarious. You could be having your worst day possible, and you could be speaking to Gemma, and you'd feel alright again. She'd rather help out other people than help herself".
A GoFundMe page has already gathered over £2,700. An inquest into her death is scheduled for next March.
Tyler received an 18-year sentence at Worcester Crown Court last August. He had previously pleaded guilty to three counts each of causing death by dangerous driving and driving without insurance.
The court was informed that he had up to 215 milligrams of alcohol per 100ml of blood – exceeding the legal limit of 80ml. Blood tests also indicated significant levels of cocaine and cannabis.
It was heard that Tyler had been drinking with his friend Miles Smith-Green at the West Midlands Tavern in Worcester, where they won £100 on the fruit machines.
After consuming five pints of lager and four shots, including Sambuca and Jagerbombs, the duo were asked to leave the pub due to their unruly behaviour. They proceeded to get into a stolen BMW and sped off towards Badsey, Evesham, Worcestershire, without bothering to fasten their seatbelts.
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One motorist recounted that the vehicle was moving so swiftly she felt "fearful for her safety", while another described how Tyler nearly collided with her car at speeds reaching 100mph.
She recounted the harrowing incident as akin to a "near death experience". Another witness commented on Tyler's reckless driving, suggesting he had a "death wish".
During the sentencing, Judge James Burbidge addressed Tyler, stating: "Your actions have had a devastating effect on the victims as a result of your dangerous and selfish actions. They will remain bereft."
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