Deputy Mayor working to reduce deaths on South Yorkshire's roads after "heart-breaking" fatal collision
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the terrible impact that fatalities on our roads have on families, communities and emergency service personnel”
South Yorkshire’s deputy mayor has pledged to reduce “deaths and serious injuries on our roads” after a tragic collision in Rotherham resulted in the loss of two people’s lives.
Kilvinder Vigurs has made her calls after two people died on Saturday, September 26, when a white BMW 3 series came off the carriageway and collided with a lamppost.
A pile of flowers and tributes have been left at the scene on East Bawtry Road in the Whiston area of Rotherham as the incident sends shockwaves across the community.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of two young lives following the collision in Rotherham on Saturday evening,” the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime added.
“My thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their families, friends and everyone affected by this devastating incident.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the terrible impact that fatalities on our roads have on families, communities and emergency service personnel. In recent years, we have seen a number of heart-breaking incidents involving young people across South Yorkshire.
“Every loss of life on our roads is a tragedy, and we recognise that one fatality is one too many.”
Ms Vigurs said that it is “important that we do not speculate” as police investigations continue, but said she was “committed to doing everything we can to improve safety across our road network and prevent future loss of life.”
She continued: “As chair of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership, I am working with partners across the region to deliver a comprehensive action plan aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on our roads.
“In the coming months, we will be introducing our new regional action plan, supporting evidence-led interventions, and investing in measures and infrastructure designed to make our roads safer for everyone.
“My thoughts remain with all those affected at this incredibly difficult time.”
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The two young men who died in the collision have been named locally as Jacob Skidmore and Jacob Patching.
Police investigations into the circumstances leading to the collision are continuing, with officers saying that is is understood they were travelling with a blue BMW 4 series at the time.
A man has been arrested in connection to the investigation on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released on police bail.
A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Officers are keen to hear from any witnesses who have not yet spoken to them, or anyone who has footage of the collision, or either vehicle prior is urged to get in touch.”