The family of Brad Craven, a 72-year-old cyclist killed by an unlicensed driver under the influence of cocaine, has spoken of the devastating and lasting impact of his death. Teddy Picton, 20, was sentenced to seven years in a young offenders institute after pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. The crash occurred on Dunleavy Drive in Grangetown, Cardiff, on May 17, 2025. Craven suffered catastrophic injuries and never regained consciousness, dying a month later. At the time, he was organizing the funeral of his wife, Janet, who had died from cancer in April 2025.
Brother Witnessed the Crash
Philip Craven, Brad's brother and cycling companion, described seeing him "gasping for breath" after the collision. In a statement read at Cardiff Crown Court on July 15, 2026, he said: "Brad’s death was a brutal and traumatic tragedy and unnecessary. We were experienced cyclists... On May 17, Brad was cycling ahead of me and I remembered hearing a loud bang... When I turned the corner I could see Brad lying awake on the pavement. I saw him gasping for breath, choking on his blood. I thought this would be his last tortured breath." Philip died of a heart condition two months before the sentencing; his family attributed his death to a broken heart.
Driver's Actions and Court Proceedings
Teddy Picton, of Cog Road, Sully, Vale of Glamorgan, had been drinking the night before and took cocaine. He was driving without a licence or insurance. In his first police interview, Picton claimed his passenger tried to kiss him and grab his leg, causing him to take his eyes off the road for three seconds. Witnesses described the aftermath as "horrific" and noted no braking or evasive action. CCTV footage confirmed no sound of brakes or screeching tyres. Picton was sentenced to seven years detention and disqualified from driving for nine years and eight months.
Family Statements Highlight Ongoing Grief
Richard Kendal, Brad's cousin, said he now fears cycling. He told the court: "Angela [Brad's sister] had mental illness and is now in care, Brad was her main carer. Philip took on this responsibility but he has now passed... Angela now has no brother to support her." Elin Healey, Philip's partner, said the loss altered Philip's life: "Phil’s life altered too, he was changed not just by the devastating loss of his best friend and brother but by the anger he felt... The impact of Brad’s death on Phil could not help but be transferred onto me." She added that Philip's grief may have masked cancer symptoms, affecting his immune system.
Nephew Describes Lasting Trauma
Daniel Griffiths, Brad's nephew, said the consequences will stay with the family forever. In his statement, he said: "I visited my uncle in the intensive care unit at the Heath and what I saw there will stay with me forever... The consequences of how my uncle died will stay with us forever. The harm caused by his preventable death is heavy. We will carry it for the rest of our lives." He also suffered prolonged migraines due to stress. Lucy Edwards, Brad's niece, said: "Brad was always so much more than the victim in this case, he was gentle, caring and a valued member of our family. His absence is felt every single day." Dr Carol Standley, sister-in-law, noted: "Brad has been denied so much... We in turn have been denied him. Our grief is ongoing and the consequences of his loss will remain with our family for the rest of our lives."
