A teenage girl and her two friends died in a horrific car crash when their vehicle smashed into a tree, an inquest revealed today. Sophie Bates, 17, was in the back seat of the Ford Ka when the tragedy occurred in Penkridge, Staffordshire, on May 25. Driver Dafydd Craven-Jones, 18, and front-seat passenger Morgan Jones, 17, also lost their lives in the devastating accident.
Another friend, Brooke Varley, 17, survived the crash and is now recovering at home. During the inquest, it was disclosed that Sophie died from a traumatic brain injury, while Morgan suffered a severe head injury. The cause of Dafydd’s death has not yet been established, according to the court.
Emma Serrano, area coroner for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, adjourned the full inquest as police investigations continue. Brooke Varley, who bravely survived the crash, paid tribute to her “amazing” friends in a heartfelt statement. “Sophie was the kindest person who lived her life to the fullest,” Brooke said, told Daily Mail.
“She is my inspiration to get better and do everything she didn’t get a chance to do. She will forever be in my heart.” Reflecting on Morgan, she added, “Morgan was one of the funniest people I know. He was always respectful, kind, and sweet. He always looked out for me.”
“Daf had a kind soul and loved his friends. I’m thinking of their families at this sad time and everyone who is affected by this tragic incident.”The crash took place after the two boys traveled 60 miles from Wrexham, North Wales, to see the girls for a night out. Sophie succumbed to her injuries three days later in the hospital, while Dafydd and Morgan were declared dead at the scene.
Sophie’s family described her as the “best big sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend to many” who was “full of fun and beyond witty.” They expressed their sorrow, saying, “Our darling girl Sophie will be sorely missed and loved eternally. Forever in our hearts, 17…always.”
Dafydd’s family remembered him as “a beautiful soul” and the “baby of the family.” Morgan’s family described him as “a very popular young man” and a talented sportsman. The tragic accident has left a profound impact on the community, with friends and family mourning the loss of three vibrant young lives. As the investigation continues, the memories of Sophie, Dafydd, and Morgan live on through the heartfelt tributes of those who knew and loved them.
