The families of the three young men who tragically died following a road traffic collision around 7:00 pm on Monday, December 11, 2023, in Coedely, Rhondda Cynon Taf, have expressed heartfelt tributes for them.
They are:
- Callum Griffiths, 19, from Porth
- Jesse Owen, 18, from Tonypandy
- Morgan Smith, 18, from Tonypandy
The family of Callum Griffiths, 19, from Porth, his mum Natalie, dad Lee and Callum’s 15-year-old sister Erin, said:
“Callum had the most beautiful smile that would light up the room. He was the most precious gift of a son and our love is endless.
“Our hearts have been broken into a million pieces, broken beyond repair. He was so loving and had a caring soul. He has left a hole in our hearts that cannot be filled.
“Callum was a world champion in Kickboxing and achieved numerous Gold medals and has represented Wales in different countries all over the world.
“Callum qualified as a Barber just over a year ago. He was a passionate, hard-working and a dedicated Barber. And we are so very proud of him. We are proud of everything he’s achieved.
“We love you “Champ”.
From Erin, Callum’s sister, added:
“Callum was my best friend and the most selfless person in the world. I will always love him and am so proud of him.”
The family of Jesse Owen, 18, from Penygraig, Rhondda Cynon Taff, said:
“Jesse had a presence that would light up any room. He was loved by all who had the honour of knowing him. He was the most loving, happy kind, calm and beautiful soul. He would do absolutely anything for anyone. He loved his family and friends and was loyal to the core.
“Jesse loved his boxing, watches and socialising with friends.
“He has left a huge void in all of our hearts and our lives will never be the same without him. He will be sorely missed by his parents, grandparents, brothers and extended family.
“We are all truly heartbroken.”
The family of Morgan Smith, 18, from Clydach Vale, Tonypandy, said:
“Morgan is a popular boy, he is a well-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin.
“Morgan was best known as a talented boxer previously gaining a Welsh title. He was an up-and-coming star with a promising boxing career ahead of him.
“We as a family are devastated by the loss of Morgan, we have been left with a void that can never be filled We love you our boy.
“We would like to thank all the emergency services that assisted at the scene.
“Please could you respect our privacy whilst we grieve the loss of Morgan.”
A pair of individuals, aged 18 and 19, are currently hospitalized with critical injuries, while two others received treatment for minor injuries.
Elwyn Street, the terraced street where the accident occurred, has a speed limit of 20mph (32km/h).
Floral tributes have been placed at the site by mourners.
Speaking yesterday, Superintendent Esyr Jones of South Wales Police said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident. Trained family liaison officers are supporting the families at what must be an extremely difficult time for them.”
Anyone who witnessed the collision or the manner in which either vehicle was being driven prior to the collision is asked to contact South Wales Police.
In addition, anyone with any dash cam or mobile phone footage or who was witness to the collision is asked to contact police quoting reference 2300420639.
