**Man Fatally Injured Following Collision Between Car and Van in Porth**
A tragic incident unfolded in Porth, Rhondda, on Wednesday evening, as a man lost his life following a serious road traffic collision involving a car and a van. The accident occurred on the A4233 Porth Bridge at approximately 5:55pm. Emergency services, including paramedics and several units from South Wales Police, attended the scene promptly in response to the call.
According to police reports, the collision resulted in fatal injuries to a 46-year-old man from Ferndale. Sadly, despite the quick arrival of medics and emergency personnel, the man was pronounced dead at the location of the crash. Authorities have not yet released his identity, and the process of informing his family is ongoing, in line with standard procedures in such cases.
The aftermath of the incident saw significant disruption in the area, with the A4233 bypass closed off in both directions to allow for a thorough investigation. The closure stretched between the Porth roundabout and the Ynyshir roundabout, causing lengthy diversions and delays for motorists throughout the evening. Accident investigators remained at the bridge for several hours, methodically documenting the scene and gathering evidence in an effort to establish the cause of the collision.
By 10pm, the road was still shut, and police officers could be seen taking photographs, mapping out the vehicles’ positions, and collecting debris for later analysis. The closure served both the needs of the investigation and the safety of the public, as officers worked to clear any potential hazards from the scene of the accident.
South Wales Police have since reopened the A4233, but they have made it clear that their inquiries remain active. Officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage of the incident or surrounding area at the relevant time, to come forward and assist with the investigation. Such contributions from the public can often prove vital in constructing a full and accurate picture of what occurred.
In an official statement, a spokesperson for South Wales Police confirmed: “South Wales Police was called at 5:55pm on Wednesday, 18 June, to reports of a collision involving a car and a van on Porth Bridge (A4233). As a result of the collision, a 46-year-old man from Ferndale has tragically died. Our investigations into the circumstances of this incident are ongoing.”
Incidents like this serve as a sombre reminder of the risks inherent to travelling on busy roads, and the impact that such tragedies have on families and the wider community. Local leaders have reiterated calls for drivers to observe speed limits and exercise caution, particularly at well-trafficked intersections and bridges such as the A4233 in Porth.
The wider Rhondda community has reacted with shock and sadness, extending condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. Meanwhile, road safety campaigners have renewed appeals for increased awareness and vigilance behind the wheel.
Further updates are expected as the police continue their investigation. In the meantime, anyone with information relating to the incident is encouraged to contact South Wales Police directly. The force has assured the public that all leads will be thoroughly examined, as they seek to provide answers and support to those affected by this devastating event.