A six-year-old boy described as "full of character and personality" has died after being hit by a van outside his home in a Welsh town. Harrison Glynne Jones was named locally as the child who died in the incident in Llanfairfechan, Conwy, on Thursday.
Harrison was hit by a car outside his home shortly after 5pm and was pronounced dead at the scene in front of his family, who have been left devastated. The community in Llanfairfechan is said to be "hurting" following the tragedy.
Family tributes and fundraiser
A GoFundMe page set up to support the family has raised thousands in a matter of hours. It said the incident has changed the family's world "forever" and described Harrison 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."
As well as his mum and dad, Harrison leaves behind two older sisters, the fundraiser added. It said: "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."
Community response
The Llanfair Arms pub remained closed as a mark of respect, with a post saying the whole village is feeling the loss of a "very special little boy." Llanfairfechan Town FC also shared a tribute, saying: "The heartbreaking loss of a young boy has touched everyone across Llanfairfechan. There really are no words at a time like this."
Hope Church was open on Friday afternoon as a space for people to come together and reflect.
Police investigation
The driver of the van, a 39-year-old local man, was arrested on suspicion of driving offences. He has been released under investigation. Detective Inspector Tim Evans, of 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."
Police are appealing for anyone in the area around Pen y Bryn Road and Mill Road at around 5pm Thursday to come forward, including those with private CCTV, front door camera, or dashcam footage. 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."
Anyone with information is urged to contact North Wales Police via live webchat, 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number 26000807122.
