Tributes paid to victim of road smash
A COUPLE have paid tribute to their “beautiful” and “brave” daughter who died in a collision in Bridgwater earlier this week.
Bethany Branson, 19, had been travelling with a female friend in a white Citroen across the A38 junction of St John Street to Eastover when they were involved in a four-vehicle collision. It happened at about 9.50pm on Tuesday.
Bethany died at the scene as a result of her injuries. Two men were arrested following the incident and one man has now been charged in connection with the collision.
Bethany’s parents, Amy and Ben, paid tribute to their daughter following her death. They said: “Today our hearts have been torn in two. Our beautiful, brave, and unbelievably special baby girl, Bethany, has been taken from us.
“She will always be so cherished and loved in our hearts and we know that she was loved by so many around her. Today, the world suddenly seems a much, much sadder place.”
Bethany played for the Bridgwater & Albion women’s rugby team and was described as a “lovely person and great team member and club person”.
In a statement paying tribute to Bethany, the club said she was “taken far too early” and they were sending their condolences to her family and friends.
On Facebook, the women’s rugby team wrote: “It is with shock and great sadness that we have learned of the death of Beth Branson. Beth is an active member of our women’s team. Beth has been a member of our women’s team for many years and graduated through our girls’ and youth sections. She has been taken far too early at the age of 19 and the situation teaches us how unjust some situations are.”
Beth’s family say they are grateful for the support they have received from the public and now request privacy as they mourn their loss. The family are being supported by a specially trained police officer.
Luke Hawkes, 29, of Wadham Close, Bridgwater, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and failing to provide a sample of breath. He appeared at Taunton Magistrates’ Court yesterday. He has been remanded in custody and will next appear at Taunton Crown Court on December 9.
A second man who was arrested following the incident has been released under investigation.