News

Two convicted following fatal car crash which took Ella’s life

Published

11 months ago

December 20, 2023

IN A HEARING Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday (Dec 20), Emma Price and Jago Clarke, both 21, have been found guilty of causing the death of 21-year-old Ella Smith by dangerous driving.

This tragic event unfolded on the B4341 at Portfield Gate, near Haverfordwest, on the evening of June 13, 2021.

Ella Smith, a passenger in Clarke’s Ford Ka, lost her life in the crash, while Daisy Buck, traveling in a Seat Ibiza, suffered severe injuries. Price, though not directly involved in the collision, was accused of competitive speeding with Clarke, contributing to the fatal outcome.

After extensive deliberation, the jury rejected Clarke’s plea of causing death by careless driving, convicting him of the more severe charges of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving. Price, who denied all charges, was found guilty as charged.

The court heard harrowing details from that fateful day.

Clarke had invited Smith to Broad Haven beach, intending to drive her car back despite only holding a provisional license and having consumed alcohol.

Luis Heathfield, a witness, recounted Clarke’s reckless boasting about overtaking everyone on the return journey.

The sequence of events leading to the crash was vividly described by witnesses. Heathfield recalled Price driving aggressively, seemingly to prevent Clarke from overtaking.

Rowan Fair, the Seat Ibiza’s driver, described witnessing the high-speed overtaking maneuver and the ensuing chaos.

Tragically, the aftermath was grim. Buck sustained serious injuries, undergoing surgery and extensive hospital treatment. Clarke himself suffered significant injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, and had no recollection of the incident.

Technical evidence revealed by the vehicles’ black boxes painted a stark picture. Clarke’s Ford Ka averaged 70mph in the lead-up to the crash, exceeding the 60mph speed limit. At the moment of impact, its speed was 51mph.

Price’s defence, denying any racing or reckless overtaking, was ultimately unpersuasive.

The defendants await sentencing on January 19, currently out on bail and disqualified from driving.

Judge Paul Thomas KC commended the jury for their diligent consideration of this complex and tragic case.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

4 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!