An 18-year-old died in a Rotherham crash, but his family was incorrectly told he survived due to a police ID mix-up, only learning the truth after 22 days
Tributes for Joshua Johnson Following Fatal Crash
Heartfelt tributes have come in for 18-year-old Joshua Johnson, who died in a crash after a police ID mix-up.
Joshua was initially thought to be one of the survivors of a fatal collision last month. His family and friends believed he was under sedation in the hospital for 22 days.
Police Mix-Up and Its Consequences
South Yorkshire Police mistakenly informed Joshua’s relatives that he had survived the Rotherham collision. Tragically, Joshua had died due to this ID mix-up.
The police issued an incorrect statement confirming that Trevor Wynn, 17, had died in the crash while Joshua had survived. Both families were misinformed, with one set of parents believing their son had died and the other thinking he was alive.
After further checks, including forensic testing, police confirmed that Trevor was the one receiving treatment in the hospital, while Joshua had sadly passed away.
This delay meant Joshua’s loved ones spent Christmas hoping for his recovery, only to learn of his death.
Tributes from Friends and Family
Tributes for Joshua, known as Josh, have flooded social media. One person wrote, “Rest In Peace Josh Johnson, another top lad taken way too soon. Thoughts are with the Johnson family and all of Josh’s friends at this difficult time!”
Another friend, Lee Logan, shared images of Joshua on Facebook, captioning it: “Fly high brother. RIP.”
A family member expressed their devastation, saying, “We were privileged to watch him grow up from a smiling happy baby into the most caring, loving, polite young man.”
They added, “A wonderful young man, with his whole life ahead of him taken far too soon. RIP Josh Johnson #2/#22 you may be gone but you will never be forgotten.”
Joshua’s Background and Police Response
Joshua, described as ‘fearless’ by friends, competed in stockcar competitions across the UK and had just passed his driving test in September.
A GoFundMe appeal for his funeral describes him as an “incredible person.”
South Yorkshire Police stated that families and the surviving victim will receive support from specialist officers and services. They also revealed that an unnamed 17-year-old girl died in the crash.
The mix-up was discovered when Trevor awoke from a coma and told doctors his name. He is now recovering and receiving specialist support.
Police Accountability and Community Reaction
The police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane acknowledged the shock and trauma caused by the incident.
He stated, “We are supporting Trevor and all the families through this and have engaged specialist agencies to help provide that support.”
Jake Richard, the MP for Rother Valley, expressed his sadness over the situation, calling it “an appalling situation for the families involved.”
He emphasized the need for answers regarding the police’s failure in this case.
Arrests Made in Connection with the Crash
An 18-year-old was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. A 19-year-old was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. Both remain on bail pending further inquiries.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Joshua Johnson, 18 |
| Incident Date | Last month |
| Police Statement Error | Joshua was reported as surviving |
| Other Victim | Trevor Wynn, 17 |
| Additional Victim | Unnamed 17-year-old girl |
| Arrests Made | 18-year-old and 19-year-old |
