Driver died after car aquaplaned, inquest finds

A 22-year-old driver died when his car aquaplaned on surface rain water and left the road, a coroner said.

Cody Stock was killed in the incident on the westbound carriageway of the A45, between Ditchford Lane, Rushden and Turnells Mill Lane, Wellingborough on 5 December.

Hassan Shah, assistant coroner for Northamptonshire, said he would be contacting National Highways to request a report on the road's condition to see what preventative measures could be implemented to avoid further deaths.

His parents, Hayley and Adam, welcomed Shah's findings and agreed it could "help reduce the risk of future collisions".

One of his best friends, who was a passenger in the car, suffered serious injuries, Northamptonshire Police said.

After the inquest Stock's parents said: "As a family, we were devastated that another young man sustained serious injuries in the collision, and our thoughts and prayers remain with him and his family at what continues to be a particularly challenging time for them.

"We would like to take this opportunity to send our heartfelt thanks to everyone who stopped at the scene and tried to help both young men, as well as those who assisted with the police investigation."

They also thanked the force, including its family liaison officers, East Midlands Ambulance Service and the fire crews.

"We were always so proud of his ability to overcome adversity and shine, many times against the odds.

"He was such a genuinely caring person who would always ensure everyone else was happy and that they knew they mattered and were important."

They said he would be remembered for his "kindness and compassion" and he was always willing to help others.

"He was just an amazing, kind, funny and inspirational person.

"He had the ability to cheer others up when needed and never failed to put a smile on their faces. He lived for his family and friends, who loved him so much.

"Cody was a hero to his little brother, much adored by his sisters and a great friend to so many.

"He was a cheeky chap with a dry sense of humour and his own unique take on life," they added.

Do you have a story suggestion for Northamptonshire? Contact us below.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.