Man who killed footballer, 20, bows his head as judge warns he'll go to jail

Adam Everett

19 November 2024 at 8:30 am·1-min read

A man has been warned to expect a "long sentence of imprisonment" after he admitted killing a young footballer. Sam Harding died aged 20 after being struck by an Audi S3 on Kingsland Grange in Woolston, Warrington, during a suspected car meet on the evening of April 10 2022.

Mason Hodgson, of Glen Road in Morley, Leeds, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court this morning, Tuesday, after being charged with causing his death by dangerous driving. The 23-year-old pleaded guilty to this single count.

He will now be sentenced on December 19 and was released on unconditional bail until this date. Judge Neil Flewitt KC told him: "You have pleaded guilty to an extremely serious offence that will inevitably carry with it a long sentence of imprisonment. You must prepare yourself for that inevitable outcome. Do you understand?"

Hodgson, who wore a black shirt and glasses and sat with his head bowed in the dock, replied "yes". Around 20 of Mr Harding's friends and family members were present in the public gallery during today's hearing.

The former England schoolboy, from Stockport, was rushed to Warrington Hospital following the incident, which occurred shortly after 9.30pm, but was subsequently pronounced dead. He represented clubs including Prescot Cables, Runcorn Linnets, FC United of Manchester, Glossop North End, Longridge Town and Ashton Athletic during his playing career.

His loved ones previously said in a statement: "Our beautiful son was tragically taken away from us on Sunday, April 10 2022. A much loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many. We will never ever forget you Sam and will love you forever. Rest in peace sweet angel."

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