Heartbreaking Tragedy Strikes Before Christmas
In a devastating incident just days before Christmas, three teenagers lost their lives in a horrific head-on collision between a bus and an Audi.
The victims, Morgan Smith, Jesse Owen, and Callum Griffiths, aged 18 and 19, were on a Christmas night out with two other friends when the tragedy occurred on Ely Valley Road, Coedely, Tonyrefail, at 7 pm.
Tribute to a “Perfect Son”
Parents of Morgan Smith, one of the victims, expressed their heartbreak, describing him as “literally the most perfect son you could ever wish for.” Morgan’s father, Daniel Chalfont, referred to him as his “baby boy” and expressed the pain of living life without him.
Morgan was not only a cherished son but also a talented boxer who had won a Welsh youth title.
Night Out Ends in Horror
The group of five teenagers, school friends who played on the same rugby team, was on a night out when the serious collision occurred.
The crash, which involved a regular service bus and an Audi A1, took place in Coedely near Tonyrefail, after the friends had traveled about four miles from their home in the Tonypandy area of Rhondda, South Wales.
Community in Shock
Local authorities and emergency services responded to the distressing scene, urging the public to refrain from speculation and rumors.
Deputy mayor Dan Owen-Jones described the situation as “horrific” and emphasized the pain, shock, and suffering witnessed by the grieving families. The community, already feeling the impact, opened the community center to support emergency services.
Police Investigation and Support
Police confirmed the deaths of three young men aged 18 and 19 at the scene, with two others aged 18 and 19 sustaining life-threatening injuries.
The road remained closed as investigations into the collision continued. Superintendent Esyr Jones of South Wales Police expressed condolences, and trained family liaison officers were supporting the affected families during this difficult time.
MP Acknowledges Community Support
Alex Davies-Jones, MP for Pontypridd, acknowledged the devastating news and expressed condolences to the affected families.
Appreciating the efforts of emergency services and first responders, she emphasized ongoing support while the investigation continued. The community grapples with the shockwave of the tragic incident during what should be a festive season.
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