The family of a teenager who died by suicide after a traumatic crash that killed his friend have remembered him as a hero for his selfless actions. Cameron Williams was in a work scaffolding lorry with his friend Tyler Carley, driven by colleague Michael Ronner, when it overturned on the A4174 in Mangotsfield on December 5, 2023.
Tyler, 20, suffered a fatal head injury at the scene. Cameron, though physically unharmed, was deeply affected mentally and died by suicide in September 2024 at age 19.
Cameron, from Downend, smashed the lorry's windscreen after the crash and helped Tyler and Ronner escape the vehicle. Although he could not save his friend, his actions may have prevented Ronner from being seriously injured or killed.
Driver Michael Ronner, 39, of Warmley, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. He was sentenced on June 5 to six months in prison, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete a nine-month alcohol treatment program, five days of rehabilitation, 150 hours of unpaid work, and an 18-month driving ban. He must also pay £784 in costs.
In a statement released by Cameron's nan Karen after sentencing, the family asked that Cameron's courage be remembered. "Whilst nothing can change what happened that night, we would like people to remember Cameron for the incredible courage and selflessness he showed," the statement said.
"In the aftermath of the collision and despite the trauma and shock, Cameron did everything he could to help Tyler and those involved – something no young man should ever have to face. He was only 18 at the time, but his actions showed extraordinary bravery, compassion and strength of character. We want people to know how proud we are of him."
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the family's account of Cameron's bravery. Karen expressed disappointment with the sentence, saying, "I don't have a lot of faith in the judicial system. I think what he got was terrible. People get an awful lot more for an awful lot less."
The Williams family also praised Tyler's family for their strength during the two-and-a-half-year wait for sentencing. "Whilst we live with the heartbreak of losing Cameron every day, we take comfort in believing that Cameron and Tyler are together, looking after one another," the statement continued.
"We are immensely proud of Cameron, and we hope he is remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the remarkable bravery, selflessness and kindness he showed when it mattered most."
