Families of young road crash victims - aged 20 and 18 - pay tribute to 'beloved sons'

The families of two young South Devon men who died following a road crash have paid tribute to them.

Officers were called at around 3.15am on Tuesday December 17 to the B3260 at Okehampton following an incident involving a blue MG ZS. Fire and ambulance services both also attended.

Alfie Abbott, 20 and from Kingsteignton, was pronounced dead at the scene. Fellow passenger Liam Shears, 18 and from Chagford was taken to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital but died before arrival.

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

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

Both families say they are grateful for the comfort and support which they have received and experienced over the past few days and respectfully request that family and friends are allowed to grieve in private at this very difficult time.

A 20-year-old man from Chagford was arrested on suspicion of driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs and causing death by dangerous driving.  He was dearrested and taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries. He has since been discharged and will attend a police interview in due course.

Officers from the Roads Policing Team are appealing for any witnesses in the area that may have seen the collision, or who may have any relevant dash camera or CCTV footage to come forward quoting police log 69 of 17 December 2024.