A horrific administrative error by South Yorkshire Police led a family to believe their teenage son had died, only to discover he was fighting for his life in hospital more than three weeks later.
The Night of the Collision and Initial Tragedy
In the early hours of December 13, at around 3am, a silver Toyota Corolla left the carriageway in a serious road traffic collision. The car was being driven by 17-year-old Summer Louise Scott. Police initially informed the family of 17-year-old Trevor Wynn that he had died in the crash alongside Summer.
Authorities stated that a third individual, Joshua Johnson, was in hospital fighting for his life following the incident. This information, given to the grieving families, would prove to be catastrophically incorrect.
A Devastating Error Comes to Light
The truth began to emerge on a Sunday, weeks after the accident, when new information prompted further formal identification processes. This included forensic examination. Meanwhile, Trevor Wynn awoke from a coma 22 days after the crash. He was able to tell medical staff his name and date of birth, revealing the shocking mistake.
For over three weeks, Trevor's family had been planning his funeral, an ordeal compounded by it taking place over the Christmas period. The service was scheduled for a Friday before they received the life-altering news that their son was alive. It is believed Joshua Johnson's funeral had been planned for the previous Friday.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigations
South Yorkshire Police's Assistant Chief Constable, Colin McFarlane, stated the force had referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). He acknowledged that "this has obviously come as a huge shock to everyone" involved.
In connection with the collision itself, an 18-year-old was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. A 19-year-old was also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. Both individuals remain on bail as enquiries continue.
The case has raised serious questions about identification protocols following major incidents and the profound trauma inflicted on families by such a grave error.
