Over 1,500 Attend Memorial in Cardiff, with Tensions Rising Over Police Involvement in Fatal Crash

A poignant vigil was held in Ely, Cardiff, to remember Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, who tragically lost their lives in a road accident while riding an electric bike. The gathering attracted more than 1,500 people at the spot where the teenagers died on Monday evening.

The event was marked by the release of balloons, fireworks, and flares in remembrance of the boys, whose deaths sparked widespread unrest. Rumours circulated that the pair were being chased by police before the accident, leading to violent clashes and arrests in the area. CCTV footage showing a South Wales Police van trailing the boys had circulated widely on social media, further fuelling the chaos.

Despite the claims, Alun Michael, the Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales, denied that there was a pursuit. However, the police force confirmed that a van had been following Kyrees and Harvey. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As the investigation continues, floral tributes and messages have accumulated at the crash site on Snowden Road, with hundreds gathering on Friday evening to honour the two teenagers. Attendees held blue balloons and wore T-shirts bearing images of Kyrees and Harvey. A solemn moment of silence was followed by applause.

One of Harvey’s uncles addressed the crowd, highlighting the difference between the earlier unrest and the peaceful tribute, stating, “The only difference between Monday and today is that the police aren’t here.” He emphasised that while the rioting was wrong, it stemmed from frustration, pointing to the mistreatment of local youth by the police.

The IOPC is scrutinising the events leading up to the crash, including the nature of the police interaction and whether the officers’ actions were appropriate. It is also investigating whether the officers’ behaviour constituted a pursuit, and whether the incident was properly reported.

David Ford, director of the IOPC, expressed sympathy for the families of the teenagers, stating that the investigation would be thorough and independent. The community has rallied together to support the grieving families, with plans to address the long-term needs of the local residents being discussed by politicians and community leaders.

First Minister Mark Drakeford expressed his condolences, calling the tragedy a collective trauma for the community. A grassroots initiative is being launched to create a community plan focused on the needs of Ely’s residents, with support from local agencies, including the Welsh Government and Cardiff Council.