Budding chef, 17, killed in horror crash alongside two other teenagers as family pay tribute to ‘loving and caring’ boy
A DEVASTATED family has paid tribute to a “loving and caring” budding chef who was killed in a horror crash with two others.
Jacob Holeman, 17, is one of three teens to have died following a fatal crash in Shropshire which left a fourth victim with life-changing injuries.
The tragic collision happened on a narrow country road in Tong at around 11.15pm on March 14 and involved a silver Audi A1.
The teen’s heartbroken family, from Codsall in Staffordshire, have paid tribute to their ‘funny’ and “loving and caring” teenager.
Jacob was a “budding chef”, having already started working in the industry, and his family said they were immensely proud of the man he was becoming.
In an emotional statement, his family said: “Jacob was amazing. Everyone who knew Jacob would say he was quite a shy person when you first met him, but once you knew him it was easy to see how loving and caring he was, and how funny. We are very proud of the man he was becoming.
“Jacob had a wonderful group of friends who have given us tremendous support during this difficult time. We are meeting friends of his we didn’t know he had, who are all telling us stories about how much of an incredible friend he was.”
The family said they believed the teen has found his calling and was keen to show off his food creations to friends – taking photos of dishes he’d made.
They continued: “Just after Christmas Jacob found himself a job at a local restaurant here in Tettenhall as a pot washer, before he was quickly given the opportunity to help with preparing some of the food. He was learning to make the starters and desserts, and he was so proud of his creations, taking photos and showing his friends. We believe he had found his calling in life.
“He would often cook for his friends when they came round to our home – I think it’s fair to say he was very domesticated and mature for his age.”
The “prankster” used to love winding up his family and was hailed an amazing son, grandson, brother and friend by those who knew him.
“Jacob was the youngest of four growing up with three sisters, who were fearlessly protective of him, even though he was the prankster of the household and would spend his days winding them up at any opportunity,” the family added.
“We live in a small community, and everyone knew Jacob. The local shop would always have a can of Monster and packet of strawberry laces waiting for him. Jacob enjoyed most food but his favourite was chicken wings, ensuring he had a regular visit to the local pub to enjoy a kilo of them to himself. This also allowed him to spend time with mum.
“Jacob truly was an amazing son, grandson, brother and friend and he will be missed by everyone who ever had the pleasure of knowing him.
“We are very comforted knowing he is with his dad now, who will be looking after him.”
Two other teenager boys, aged 17 and 18, also died following the collision and a third 17-year-old boy suffered life-changing injuries.
West Mercia Police said: “Police are continuing to investigate the collision and ask anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to contact DC Rich Owen on 07814773916 or email SCIUNorth@westmercia.police.uk quoting incident number 554i of 14 March, 2025.
“Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have been travelling through Bishops Wood and Brewood at around 11pm, as we believe the Audi travelled along Port Lane and Kiddemore Green Road ahead of the incident.
“The families of those involved continue to ask that their privacy is respected during this incredibly difficult time.”