The funeral of two teenagers who tragically lost their lives in a crash in Ely is set to take place today. The service, honouring best friends Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, will be held at 13.00 BST at the Church of the Resurrection in Grand Avenue, Cardiff. Following the service, a burial and a wake will be held to remember and celebrate the lives of the two young boys.
In light of the funeral, nearby Windsor Clive Primary School has announced its closure for the day after consultations with South Wales Police, Cardiff Council, and the church. The decision was made to ensure the safety and well-being of the school community during this emotional time.
The tragic incident occurred on May 22 when the two teenagers, riding an e-bike, were being followed by a police van moments before the crash on Snowden Road in Ely at approximately 18.00 BST. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation, with two South Wales Police officers being probed for gross misconduct by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The boys’ friendship group has organised a touching tribute for Kyrees and Harvey. The procession will include two limousines, four hearses, eight Rolls Royce cars, and an estimated 200-400 motorbikes. This heartfelt display of solidarity and remembrance demonstrates the impact these young boys had on their community.
Canon Jan Gould from the Church of the Resurrection Ely emphasized the importance of finding closure and moving forward for the family and the wider community. The hope is that through the funeral service, the healing process can begin, allowing the community to rebuild and the families to find solace.
In a Facebook post by a family friend, it was requested that attendees incorporate something blue into their attire to honour Kyrees and Harvey. The post called for a celebration of their lives and encouraged everyone to come together to remember and show their love for the boys.
Windsor Clive headteacher Kim Fisher addressed the school closure in a letter, acknowledging the impact of the funerals on the school’s ability to operate safely. While it may not be an ideal situation, the decision to close the school on Thursday was made in the best interest of the students, staff, and local community during this emotionally challenging time.
The tragic loss of Kyrees and Harvey has deeply affected the community. Leaders and organisations, including First Minister Mark Drakeford MS and Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt MS, have been actively working to provide support and develop plans to assist the Caerau and Ely areas, particularly focusing on the well-being of children and young people.
