Tributes paid to Okehampton crash victims

The families of two young men who tragically lost their lives following a road traffic collision in Okehampton have paid heartfelt tributes to their loved ones.

Emergency services were called to the B3260 at around 3.15am on Tuesday, December 17, following a collision involving a blue MG ZS.

Firefighters and paramedics attended the scene, but tragically, 20-year-old Alfie Abbott, from Kingsteignton, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Fellow passenger Liam Shears, 18, from Chagford, was rushed to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital but sadly passed away before arriving.

In a statement, Alfie’s family described him as “a beloved son, brother, and a great friend to many,” adding: “He was the life and soul of every party and someone who will be sincerely missed.”

Liam’s family also paid tribute, saying: “Liam was a beloved son, brother, boyfriend, and a great friend to many.”

Both families expressed gratitude for the support they have received in recent days and requested privacy as they grieve.

A 20-year-old man from Chagford, believed to have been driving the vehicle, was arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drink or drugs and causing death by dangerous driving. He was later de-arrested and taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries.

The man has since been discharged from the hospital and is expected to attend a police interview in due course.

Officers from the Devon and Cornwall Police Roads Policing Team are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the collision or have relevant dashcam or CCTV footage. Anyone with information is urged to quote police log 69 of December 17, 2024, when contacting the authorities.

The police have thanked the public for their patience during the road closure as investigations were carried out.