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Three young men killed in horror Rotherham crash named and pictured as best friend speaks out after tragedy

Tragedy struck on Saturday night

The three young men tragically killed in a horror crash in Rotherham have been named and pictured as their friends begin to share their memories of the beloved trio.

Brothers Cavan and Shea Reilly, and their friend Elliott Szczepkowski, died in a single-vehicle collision on Denaby Lane, near Kilnhurst, on Saturday night (August 8).

Cavan was 23, Shea was 21 and Elliott was 17.

Cavan has been described by his friend of six years, Jack Payne, as someone who left a huge impact on everyone he met.

Jack, 23, has set up a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and support the families following the crash.

He said: "I don't think the families, or us lads realised just how big of an impact they had on absolutely everybody.

"Everybody they did come into contact with has a funny or a memorable memory because they just had that aura - that personality. It was so infectious.

"It'll just linger and last forever. And I love that."

Cavan Reilly, 24placeholder image
Cavan Reilly, 24 | Contributed

Describing his relationship with Cavan, Jack said: "We were inseparable."

He added: "It tears me apart day and night."

Cavan was described as hardworking, funny and caring, with a personality that could bring a smile to those around him without even trying.

Shea Reilly, 21placeholder image
Shea Reilly, 21 | Contributed

Shea was just 21 and was Cavan's brother.

He has been described as bubbly, happy and warm-hearted, with a way of bringing laughter wherever he went.

Jack said those who knew Shea will remember his smile, his laugh and the happiness he brought into the lives of those around him.

Elliott was just 17 years old, and was friends with Cavan and Shea.

Elliott Szczepkowski, 17placeholder image
Elliott Szczepkowski, 17 | Contributed

He had already joined the army, and Jack said he was a driven individual.

He said: “Elliott had already begun taking steps towards building a future for himself by starting his journey in the Army - a path that reflected his strength, courage and desire to achieve something meaningful with his life and he loved going back there.”

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Officers are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage that could assist with their enquiries, to come forward.

Information can be passed to South Yorkshire Police by calling 101, quoting incident number 1,235 of August 8, 2026, or online.

Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

To donate visit the GoFund me page here.

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