Floral tributes left at the scene of a Cardiff car crash that killed three young people and left two others seriously injured. The group, three women and two men, had been last seen in Cardiff in the early hours of Saturday after a night out. The vehicle they were travelling in, a Volkswagen Tiguan, was discovered nearly 48 hours after they were last seen crashed off the A48 near St Mellons. Police investigations are ongoing.
Throughout Monday, well-wishers and mourners arrived to pay their respects and leave tributes at the site of the crash. The women – Sophie Russon, 20, Eve Smith, 21, and Darcy Ross, 21 – had travelled to Cardiff from Porthcawl with the two men – Rafel Jeanne, 24, and Shane Loughlin, 32, both from Cardiff – who were also reported as missing.
The car was recovered just after midnight on Monday and police believe it was involved in a road traffic collision before coming off the A48(M). However, it is not yet clear when or why the crash happened. Large green fencing and tarpaulin were erected around the crash site, which is among trees, as police carry out detailed investigations.
During the day people attended to leave floral tributes to those who died. Among the tributes one said: “Fly high. You’re in a better place now. This was the last thing we expected. I know you are still partying up there. Have one for me.” Another simply said: “RIP”.
Gwent Police said the two injured people were being treated in hospital for serious injuries. “Specialist officers are supporting the families of those involved and inquiries are ongoing,” a force spokesman said. “The case has been referred to the IOPC in line with normal procedures.” An IOPC spokesman said: “We can confirm that Gwent Police have advised us that they are making a referral in connection with this tragic incident and we will carry out an assessment in due course to determine what further action may be required from us.”
Later South Wales Police said that at 12.15am on Monday officers were called to a report of a car being located off the A48(M). “South Wales Police is carrying out an investigation into the road traffic collision to establish what happened,” a force spokesman said. “We would like to thank the public for their patience and their cooperation whilst the road is closed. Our thoughts are with those affected by this incident.”
Neighbours Adi and Versha Mahindra, who live near the crash site, expressed their shock and condolences to the families affected. The couple shared that they became aware of the incident when they saw flashing lights in the area around 12.30am on Monday.
Versha said: “I can’t focus on anything today because I can’t stop thinking of the families of the people involved. I thought it was an accident because it happens a lot here. However we’ve seen accidents before but nothing compared to this.
“There were more emergency services this time and lots of people gathered. My thoughts are with the families.”
»Floral tributes left at Cardiff car crash scene where three young people died and two were injured«
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