The family of a teenager killed in a Yorkshire car crash have described their 'unimaginable' ordeal after police mistakenly identified another boy as their son for several days.
A Tragic Collision and a Painful Error
Joshua Johnson, 18, died following a collision on Todwick Road near Rotherham in the early hours of December 13. Another teenager, 17-year-old Summer Louise Scott, was also killed in the incident.
In the immediate aftermath, South Yorkshire Police (SYP) informed the family of 17-year-old Trevor Wynn that he was the deceased male victim. Joshua Johnson was believed to be an injured survivor under sedation in hospital.
This meant Joshua's own family spent agonising hours at the hospital bedside of Trevor Wynn, believing him to be their son. It was not until Sunday, December 17, that 'information came to light' prompting further checks by the force. Forensic tests then confirmed the devastating truth: Trevor Wynn was alive and receiving treatment, while Joshua Johnson had died at the scene.
A Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In a statement issued through police, Joshua's family paid a moving tribute to their 'loveable, gentle giant'. They revealed the depth of their confusion and grief during the days of mistaken identity.
'What we have been through and are continuing to go through is unimaginable,' the statement read. 'From the moment we were told about the collision in December, ourselves and many loved ones have spent hours in hospital with who we now know to be Trevor. We never wanted him to be alone.'
The family described Joshua as a genuine and caring young man, devoted to his family and friends. They shared cherished memories of stock car racing, a passion he held since being taken to his first meeting at just six weeks old.
'Whilst he was 18 and exploring his independence, he was ever so genuine in his care for others – us, his brother, his grandparents, his extended family, and his many friends,' they added.
Investigation and Ongoing Inquiries
South Yorkshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) over the handling of the victim identification process following the fatal crash.
In a separate development linked to the collision, police previously confirmed that an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. A 19-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. Both individuals have been released on bail pending further inquiries.
The family of Joshua Johnson has asked for privacy as they begin their 'journey with grief', adjusting to a life without their beloved son and brother.
