Rotherham Crash: Family Paid Tributes to Teen After Police Error

A family is mourning an 18-year-old son, Joshua Johnson, after being mistakenly informed by police that he had survived a car crash in Rotherham on December 13th. The error led to a prolonged and agonizing period for loved ones who spent hours at the hospital with a patient they believed to be Mr. Johnson.

Misidentification and Correction

South Yorkshire Police (SYP) initially reported that 17-year-old Trevor Wynn and a teenage girl were the victims of the collision on Todwick Road. Mr. Johnson was, according to the force, under sedation in hospital. However, information later revealed that Mr. Johnson had died in the crash and Mr. Wynn was the surviving patient. The correction came after the patient regained consciousness and stated, “I’m Trevor,” as reported by Sky News correspondent Emma Birchley.

SYP has since referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the misidentification. Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane described the error as “a huge shock” and acknowledged the additional trauma it caused to both families.

Family’s Grief and Police Response

In a statement released through police, Mr. Johnson’s family described their ordeal as “unimaginable.” They recounted spending hours at the hospital with what they believed was their son, and expressed their devastation at the loss of a “loveable, gentle giant.” The family has requested privacy as they grieve.

Mr. McFarlane stated that SYP is providing support to both families, including specialist agencies, and is committed to determining how the error occurred to prevent future incidents. He has offered to meet with both sets of parents.

Ongoing Investigation

An 18-year-old remains on bail on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and a 19-year-old is also on bail on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. The IOPC will lead the investigation into the police’s handling of the incident. It is possible the investigation will examine protocols for victim identification and family notification. Further forensic testing was conducted to confirm the error. A full review of SYP procedures is also a possible next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in Rotherham on December 13th?

A car crash occurred on Todwick Road in Rotherham, resulting in the deaths of two teenagers. Initially, South Yorkshire Police identified the victims as Trevor Wynn and a teenage girl, stating Joshua Johnson was in hospital.

How was the mistake discovered?

The mistake was discovered when the patient, initially identified as Joshua Johnson, regained consciousness and stated, “I’m Trevor.” Forensic testing subsequently confirmed this information.

What is the IOPC investigating?

The IOPC is investigating the circumstances surrounding the misidentification of the victims by South Yorkshire Police and the subsequent communication with the families.

How might families impacted by such errors best be supported during and after investigations?