A419 traffic news: Teen killed in crash named as family pay tribute
Tributes have been paid to 17 year-old Jamie Donnelly, who died after a crash on the A419 late on Tuesday, January 2. Jamie’s family described him as “a cheeky chappy, a very talented football[1] player and an all-round sports man”. “He had such an infectious laugh and knew how to light up a room,” they said in a statement released on Friday. “He had the best sense of humour and had anyone who met him in fits of laughter.
“Jamie was also one of the kindest, sweetest boys. He was very popular and never forgot anyone he met and vice versa – he left a lasting impression on anyone who met him. ” The family also asked social media users to stop speculating about his death, and said a GoFundMe page set up after the crash was not linked to them or close friends.
They said: “We would like to publicly appeal for any speculation about the collision and ongoing investigation to stop with immediate effect. “We are trying to grieve as a family and unwanted comments on social media are having a negative impact on all of us.” Jamie’s family continued to pay tribute to him and said: “Jamie was adventurous and loved his family holidays, kayaking, caving, go karting and the occasional water parks.
“Our family dog Buddy will miss Jamie playing with him and giving him all his attention. “Jamie will be sorely missed by all of his family and close friends.” Jamie died after the Vauxhall Astra he was in collided with the roundabout at Junction 15 of the M4 following a police chase at around 11pm.
Formal identification is yet to conclude, Wiltshire Police confirmed. Three arrests have since been made in relation to the incident. Officers took a man in his 20s into custody on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
He has since been released on bail. Two other occupants of the vehicle – both women in their 20s – were arrested on suspicion of taking a vehicle without consent and have now been released under investigation. The A419 was closed the following day and parts of the road remained closed until Thursday while investigations took place.
Wiltshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct to launch an independent investigation into the incident.