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Daily Record
Daily Record
World
Steven Rae

Car crash survivor issues emotional statement after horror smash leaves three dead

A man who survived a car crash in which three young people lost their lives has spoken publicly for the first time following the accident.

In a statement released by a friend on behalf of Shane Loughlin, 32, he said he "can't believe" what happened and is "gutted".

Shane, who has been in hospital since the crash on March 4, said "his heart goes out to the families and friends" of victims Eve Smith, 21, Rafel Jeanne, 24, and Darcy Ross, 21.

Shane and Sophie Russon, 20, were the only survivors of the crash on the A48 in the St Mellons area of Cardiff, reports Wales Online.

On Facebook, he wrote: "Only just found out what happened just want to say sorry to everyone and Thank you everyone who helped with the search party and thank you for everyone wishing me well I’ll be back soon love you all.

"Rip Rafel, Eve, and Darcy. Can’t believe it gutted is an understatement heart goes out to all families and friends of the people that has passed. Long way to recovery mentally and physically but we’ll get there."

Eve Smith was one of the crash victims. (Wales Online.)

In their latest update South Wales Police said their investigations had concluded the crash happened at 2.03am on Saturday, March 4.

Officers have used CCTV and number plate recognition to work out the time of the collision. They have also confirmed there is no suggestion any other vehicle was involved.

The white Volkswagen Tiguan vehicle had left the carriageway into a wooded area. South Wales Police said the families of the three people who died continue to be supported by specialist family liaison officers. Post-mortem examinations are ongoing.

Rafel Jeanne was killed in the crash. (Wales Online.)

The car the five had been travelling in was not found until just after midnight on Monday, March 6, two days after the crash.

Ffion Actie, the sister of victim Rafel, said she is "disappointed" over the police response. The devastated woman claimed that it "could have been a different outcome" if officers had arrived sooner.

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