THE FUNERAL service for two teenagers who tragically lost their lives in a crash in Ely, which subsequently led to a riot, has been confirmed to occur on 6th July.
Kyrees Sullivan, aged 16, and Harvey Evans, aged 15, who were best friends, will be remembered during a service scheduled for 1pm at the Church of the Resurrection on Grand Avenue in the Ely area of Cardiff. Following the service, a burial will take place at Western Cemetery, followed by a wake at the Vale Sports Arena.
Due to the sensitivity of the event, Windsor Clive Primary School, located nearby, has made the decision to close for the day. Discussions were held between the school, South Wales Police, Cardiff Council, and the church to reach this agreement.
The families of the boys have requested that attendees refrain from bringing motorcycles, Sur-Ron electric bikes, or scooters to the funeral.
The unfortunate incident occurred on Monday, 22nd May, when Kyrees and Harvey were riding a Sur-Ron e-bike. They were being pursued by a police van just moments before the crash transpired on Snowden Road in Ely around 6pm.
The tense situation between the public and the police at the scene resulted in a riot that persisted for several hours. The riot inflicted injuries upon numerous officers, led to property damage, and saw cars set ablaze.
As of now, a total of 20 individuals have been apprehended in connection with the riot. Furthermore, two men were arrested last week regarding a ride-out held to commemorate the teenagers, which occurred on 10th June.
Investigation into the conduct of two officers has been initiated following their appearance on CCTV, where they were seen trailing the two boys in a marked police van shortly before their demise. The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) is overseeing this probe, specifically focusing on potential gross misconduct.
This tragic incident, along with the recent death of 15-year-old Saul Cookson, who crashed his e-bike into an ambulance after being pursued by the police in Salford, Greater Manchester, has revived calls for regulations concerning e-bikes to be on par with those for other vehicles.
A family friend shared on Facebook, “I have been asked to let family and friends know that the funerals of Kyrees and Harvey will be held on Thursday 6th July at 1pm at the Church of Resurrection, followed by their final resting place at Western Cemetery at 2.30pm. Please wear what you feel comfortable in. All we ask is that you incorporate something blue. Let’s celebrate the lives of these two young boys and come together as one to remember them and show how loved they are.”
Another post conveyed, “I have been asked by Nadine Evans to let everyone know that the families would like to invite everyone who knew Harvey and Kyrees to celebrate their life at The Vale Sports Arena, Cambria House, CF11 8TW Cardiff on 6th July. It’s been asked by the families that absolutely no motorbikes, Sur-Ron’s or scooters etc are to be at the funeral as the families have been told the police would have to be made aware and this is the last thing we want. We hope to see you all on the 6th July to celebrate their life and give our boys the best send-off they deserve.”
Kim Fisher, the headteacher of Windsor Clive, issued a letter to parents stating, “You will be aware of the recent tragic events in our community where Kyrees Sullivan and Harvey Evans sadly died. I have held meetings with various organisations such as the police, Cardiff Council, and the church to risk-assess the impact of the funerals on the school’s ability to operate safely on Thursday 6th July. A joint decision has been made to close Windsor Clive on Thursday 6th July to all pupils and staff.” She added, “Whilst closing the school is not ideal, this decision has been taken in the best interests of the school and local community on what will be a very emotional time for many.”
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford convened a meeting with community leaders and organisations to discuss the most effective ways of supporting the community in the future. Social justice minister Jane Hutt revealed on Tuesday morning that they are currently developing a plan to aid the Caerau and Ely areas, with a particular focus on supporting children and young people.
Ms. Hutt stated in a press release that local group Action for Caerau and Ely (Ace) will coordinate future initiatives, and an oversight group will be chaired by her and Huw Thomas, the leader of Cardiff Council. The Welsh Government, Cardiff Council, and the South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner will provide funding for this endeavour.
