The police watchdog says its investigation into police handling of missing person reports following a crash in Cardiff which left three young people dead is “close to concluding”.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) says the investigation into the incident in March 2023 has been “complex” and “resource intensive”.
Driver Rafel Jeanne, 24, and passengers Darcy Ross and Eve Smith, both 21, died in the crash in the St Mellons area of the city on 4 March.
Shane Loughlin and Sophie Russon
Sophie Russon, 20, and Shane Loughlin, 32, were both injured but survived.
The vehicle – a Volkswagon Tiguan – veered off a slip road approaching a roundabout at 2.03am before hitting trees.
The five were not discovered until 6 March – around 46 hours after the crash took place.
The IOPC launched an investigation into how police dealt with missing persons reports over that weekend.
In an update, it said it had conducted interviews “at length” with eight Gwent police officers, all of whom have been served with gross misconduct and misconduct notices.
“As part of our enquiries we have obtained and reviewed relevant policing policies and procedures including College of Policing Guidance on missing persons and risk assessments and have recorded in excess of 400 documents.
“We have collated nearly 100 statements as part of our enquiries and as well reviewing and analysing a substantial volume of police radio airwaves, audio calls and body worn video.”
He added: “All this evidence has been carefully assessed and is being compiled into an overarching final report, to assist with the decision-making process.
“We are finalising our investigation as swiftly as possible while ensuring it is comprehensive and thorough.
“Our thoughts and sympathies remain with the families and friends of the young people who tragically lost their lives, those who were left seriously injured, and everyone affected by this incident.”
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