Two individuals have been left seriously injured following a tragic incident in Caerphilly, where a van struck pedestrians in the town centre. The dreadful event occurred on Castle Street near the Castle Court Shopping Centre on November 19th around 3pm. Emergency services swiftly responded to the crash, including Gwent Police, the Welsh Ambulance Service, and Wales Air Ambulance.
The police have identified the casualties as a 71-year-old man and a 14-year-old girl, both of whom were rushed to the hospital for medical attention. Initially listed in critical condition, the latest update from the authorities on Friday confirmed that the two victims are now in a “serious but stable” state. A 24-year-old man from Cardiff has been arrested in connection with the incident on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs.
Sergeant Lewys Davies, the lead investigator, urged the public not to speculate on social media about the circumstances surrounding the collision, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation. He assured the community of increased police presence in the area to facilitate ongoing inquiries and encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Motorists who were in the vicinity of Castle Street in Caerphilly between 2:45pm and 3pm on the day of the incident have been urged to contact the police if they have dashcam footage that could assist the investigation. They can reach out through the police website, by calling 101, or via social media, quoting the specific log reference number for the case.
Gwent Police confirmed that the arrested individual has been released pending further investigation. The force continues to appeal to the public for cooperation and any information that may aid in understanding the events leading up to the tragic collision. The community has been reminded to refrain from sharing unverified information that could impede the investigation process.
This incident has sparked concern and shock throughout the community, highlighting the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance while driving and walking in busy areas. As the investigation progresses, Gwent Police are working diligently to piece together the details of the collision and determine the factors involved in this unfortunate event.
The news of the pensioner and teenager sustaining serious injuries serves as a somber reminder of the potential risks pedestrians face on the road, emphasizing the significance of adhering to safety regulations and remaining cautious while navigating public spaces. The repercussions of this incident extend beyond the individuals directly involved and resonate with the broader community, prompting reflections on road safety measures and the collective responsibility to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Authorities are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the circumstances of the collision and provide clarity on the events that transpired. The incident in Caerphilly has underscored the fragility of life and the critical importance of upholding safety standards to protect individuals in public spaces. As the injured individuals continue their recovery, the community stands united in support, reflecting on the need for empathy, caution, and vigilance to prevent such incidents from recurring.