AN independent police enquiry into the deaths of two teenagers riding a powerful e-bike in Ely has concluded that a police vehicle seen following was half a mile away at time of the fatal collision.
Kyrees Sullivan (16) and Harvey Evans (15) both died in the incident that occurred on Snowden Road in May 2023.
Just hours later, widespread public order broke out in the area resulting in 31 police officers injured, properties damaged and vehicles being set on fire. Over 40 people were subsequently charged with various offences.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has today, 28th August, published the update on its investigation after South Wales Police (SWP) had referred itself to the police watchdog.
The IOPC’s investigation also concluded that one police officer has a case to answer for gross misconduct over a matter which took place after the incident, that will be considered at a misconduct hearing in due course.
David Ford, IOPC director, said: “Our thoughts and sympathies continue to be with the families of Kyrees and Harvey and everyone affected by the loss of such young lives. We know the boys’ deaths have had a deep impact on the local community.
“Our role when someone dies following police contact is to examine all the circumstances surrounding that incident.
“Our independent investigation looked at the interactions South Wales Police had with the boys before the collision, plus accounts provided by officers at the scene and later to our investigation.
“After a thorough review of that evidence… we have determined an officer should face disciplinary proceedings. It will be for a police disciplinary panel to determine whether the allegations are proven.”
Mr Ford added a second investigation into family complaints against South Wales Police was also “close to concluding”.
Assistant Chief Constable of SWP Simon Belcher said: “Following the tragic deaths of Kyrees Sullivan and Harvey Evans in Ely in 2023, South Wales Police made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct to ensure the matter received independent scrutiny.
“The force has fully co-operated with the IOPC investigation and provided information and material, including CCTV footage and body-worn video.”
The Crown Prosecution Service had previously decided not to bring criminal charges against the officer and the families have exercised their right under the Victims’ Right to Review to challenge this decision.
ACC Belcher added: “We hope that the outcome of the independent investigation and future inquest proceedings will provide answers to the many questions which have been raised about this case.
“Our thoughts, as ever, are with the families and friends of Harvey and Kyrees and all those affected by their deaths.”
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