A 32-year-old man has been arrested as authorities continue to probe a tragic car crash in Cardiff that resulted in the deaths of three individuals.
The arrest was made on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving while disqualified on the M4 motorway at approximately 10 pm on March 3. However, the alleged offenses for which the arrest was made are not directly linked to the crash, which occurred hours later at 2:03 am on the following day.
The collision, which took place on the A48(M) near the St Mellons area of Cardiff, claimed the lives of driver Rafel Jeanne, 24, and passengers Darcy Ross and Eve Smith, both 21.
South Wales Police have informed the families of the victims about the arrest and are providing support through specially trained family liaison officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies of South Wales Police stated that the arrest was made based on evidence uncovered during the investigation into the fatal collision, involving the same vehicle. The comprehensive investigation is ongoing, aiming to establish the sequence of events that occurred during the early hours of Saturday, March 4.
“We extend our condolences to the families and all those affected by this tragic incident,” added Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies.
Two other individuals, Sophie Russon, 20, and Shane Loughlin, 32, were injured in the crash and received medical treatment at a hospital.
The discovery of the five individuals occurred around 46 hours after the crash took place, leading to criticism of Gwent Police and South Wales Police regarding the time it took to locate the group. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is currently investigating the matter.
An initial inquest revealed that post-mortem examinations were conducted at the University Hospital of Wales. However, a provisional cause of death was not provided by pathologist Dr. Stephen Leadbeatter, as further investigation into histology and toxicology is required.
According to reports, the group had attended The Muffler social club in Maesglas, Newport, on Friday, March 3, before traveling approximately 40 miles to the Trecco Bay caravan park in Porthcawl.
They reportedly spent some time in one of the caravans on-site before leaving. The victims were last seen around 2 am in the Pentwyn area of Cardiff after dropping off a sixth passenger. Concerned about their absence, family members reported them missing.
The first missing person report was made to Gwent Police at 7:34 pm on Saturday. However, a public appeal for information regarding the missing persons was not issued until 11 pm on Sunday.
Eventually, search parties discovered the victims and the Volkswagen Tiguan they were traveling in just after midnight on Monday. The car had veered off a slip road, approaching a roundabout, and came to a rest in a small copse of trees, concealed from view by other motorists, nearby residences, and a busy garden center.
