Tragedy Strikes Plymouth: Parkour Star Karol Zalewski Killed in Motorcycle Crash
Devastation hit Plymouth’s parkour scene last week as beloved athlete and coach Karol Zalewski, 27, died instantly in a two-vehicle collision on Kings Road.
Crash Details: Two Vehicles, One Dead
The fatal smash occurred at around 10:50am on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, when Karol’s motorcycle collided with a red Mercedes. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but sadly Karol, known as “Lolek” to friends, was pronounced dead on impact.
Family Mourns “Our Little Boy Taken Too Soon”
Karol’s parents, Marzena and Tomasz, along with his brother Kamil, expressed heart-wrenching grief in a public statement:
“Thank you to everyone for the beautiful words you’ve shared about our son. It means so much to see how deeply he touched the lives around him.
Our little boy… you were taken from us in a heartbeat, without a chance to say goodbye. You had so many dreams, so many plans left unfinished. We are eternally grateful to have been your parents. We love you always.”
Friends and Girlfriend Pay Moving Tributes
Karol’s best mate of 20 years, Oskar Kieda, described him as “like a brother” and the kindest person ever met:
“Karol always put others before himself, sacrificing his own happiness to make others smile. I hope he’s in a better place now. I will carry him in my thoughts forever. Rest in peace, Karol.”
His girlfriend Meg Cadwaladr also shared her despair:
“Lolek, you were the sweetest, kindest soul. I can’t believe I’ll never see your smile again. I love you so much. We’ll all miss you terribly.”
Parkour Community and Friends Rally in Mourning
The Plymouth Parkour Team hailed Karol as a “mentor and role model” who helped shape a new generation of athletes:
“From a shy teenager to a noble man with solid morals, Karol’s love for his community touched hundreds worldwide.”
Close friends from the parkour crew Scruffy Boys called him their “heart and soul”:
“You brought life and energy to our circle. A hype man, a coach, a brother — thank you for everything, Lolek.”
Police Seek Witnesses as Investigation Continues
Following the crash, Kings Road was closed for forensic examination. Devon and Cornwall Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage or information to come forward.
Witnesses can contact police on 101 or via the official website, quoting log 208 of 20 May 2025.
