A teenager's death on the road highlights the risks associated with young and inexperienced drivers

Open Justice reports Jacob Butler was on his learner's licence and driving late at night in March 2023, when he crashed his car and died.

The 17-year-old and three friends were illegally hunting in Bay of Plenty's Kaingaroa Forest, and suspected of smoking cannabis that evening.

The group came across a security team on the road and Butler took off at pace, colliding with another vehicle and a tree about ten minutes later - he died at the scene.

The coroner determined the manner of death was accidental, but preventable.

He emphasised learner drivers lack the judgement and experience needed to respond safely in high-stress situations.