Pair killed after ‘lying and kneeling’ on road – Heartbreaking tragedy unfolds in Pontypridd
Kayleigh Cornwell and Jason Morgan, both 32, tragically lost their lives after being hit by a car while in the middle of a road in Pontypridd on January 27, 2023. The inquest revealed that both individuals were heavily intoxicated at the time of the accident, leading to catastrophic injuries that resulted in their deaths. Kayleigh, originally from Hampshire, had faced challenges in her life, moving out at a young age and battling mental health issues. She had five children and relocated to south Wales for a fresh start. Jason, diagnosed with ADHD, had struggled with drug dependency and homelessness but was making positive changes in his life before the accident.
Witnesses described seeing the pair walking erratically in the road, with several drivers having to swerve to avoid them. The collision occurred when a Ford Focus, driven by Jonathan Owens, struck Kayleigh and Jason. Paramedics arrived at the scene to find both individuals with severe injuries, and tragically, both were pronounced dead shortly after. The coroner identified a combination of alcohol and drugs as contributing factors to the incident.
Kayleigh had suffered multiple blunt force injuries, including cardiac lacerations, while Jason’s cause of death was attributed to blunt force injuries to the head and the body. Forensic investigators determined that Kayleigh was lying down during the collision, while Jason was low to the ground or kneeling. The driver of the car stated that he did not see the pair before the impact, travelling at around 45mph at the time.
The heartbreaking story serves as a reminder of the dangers of mixing intoxication with road usage. It highlights the devastating consequences that can arise from impaired judgement and erratic behaviour. The loss of Kayleigh and Jason is a tragic outcome of a series of unfortunate events, underscoring the importance of responsible decision-making and ensuring a safe environment for oneself and others. May their tragic story serve as a poignant reminder to prioritise safety and mindfulness in all circumstances.