A six-year-old boy who died after being struck by a van in Llanfairfechan, Conwy, has been named locally as Harrison Glynne Jones. The collision happened outside his family home shortly after 5pm on Thursday, and he was pronounced dead at the scene in front of his devastated loved ones.
The close-knit community has been described as "hurting" following the loss. A GoFundMe page set up to support the grieving family, which has already raised thousands of pounds within hours, said the tragic event had changed the family's world "forever".
Community tributes and fundraising
The six-year-old was remembered as a "cheeky chappy, full of character with a personality that could light up a room, and he was loved more deeply than words could ever express." In addition to his parents, Harrison is survived by two older sisters, according to the GoFundMe page.
The fundraiser has surpassed £17,000 in donations. The page reads: "Harrison's mum and dad are facing the unimaginable task of saying goodbye to their precious little boy, while trying to somehow navigate life without him so we have set up this fundraiser to help Harrison's parents through the difficult weeks and months ahead."
The Llanfair Arms pub closed its doors as a sign of respect, sharing a post noting that the entire village is mourning the loss of a "very special little boy." The post read: "He was a little boy so many of us knew, and loved, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him at this unimaginably painful time."
Police investigation and appeal
Llanfairfechan Town FC also paid tribute, writing: "The heartbreaking loss of a young boy has touched everyone across Llanfairfechan. There really are no words at a time like this. But if there is one thing about our village, it's that in the darkest of times, we come together. We look after our own, we support one another, and we stand beside those who need us most."
Hope Church opened its doors on Friday afternoon, providing a sanctuary for the community to gather and contemplate.
The driver of the van, a 39-year-old local man, was arrested on suspicion of driving offences. He has since been released under investigation. Detective Inspector Tim Evans, from the North Wales Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the child's family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. We recognise the profound impact that a tragedy such as this has on a family and the wider community."
Police are appealing for anyone in the area around Pen y Bryn Road and Mill Road at around 5pm Thursday to come forward. They are also urging anyone with private CCTV, front door camera, or dashcam footage to get in touch. A spokesperson added: "We would ask people to be mindful of the family and those affected by this tragedy, and not to speculate about the circumstances of the collision or share material online whilst the investigation continues."
Those with information can contact North Wales Police via live webchat, by calling 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number 26000807122.
