**Two admit involvement in Ely riots following deaths of teenagers in Cardiff crash**
Two individuals have pleaded guilty to charges relating to the Ely riots, which erupted after the tragic deaths of teenagers Kyrees Sullivan and Harvey Evans in Cardiff last year. The street unrest, which attracted widespread attention and condemnation, left the community shaken and raised questions about the events leading up to the young men’s deaths.
On Friday, the case was brought before Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, where Jamie Martin, 24, and Lianna Tucker, 19, formally admitted to taking part in the riotous disorder that swept the Ely neighbourhood in May 2023. Their involvement was among a total of 42 people charged in connection with the incident. While Martin and Tucker admitted guilt, several other defendants have denied the charges and will face trial at later dates.
The violence erupted on 22 May 2023, following a fatal crash in which Kyrees Sullivan, aged 16, and 15-year-old Harvey Evans lost their lives when their e-bike collided in the Cardiff suburb. The deaths set off a tidal wave of anger and grief through the local community, culminating in hours of confrontation with police. Social media videos captured large crowds and scenes of chaos, with around 150 people estimated to have participated in the disturbance. During the turmoil, missiles were thrown at police, and significant property damage took place.
During the court proceedings, the Recorder of Cardiff, Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, addressed Martin and Tucker, stating that sentencing would be deferred until trials for their co-defendants concluded. Both were released on bail and are due back in court for sentencing scheduled on 22 December.
The case has not been without controversy beyond the courtroom. The incident’s genesis—the pursuit of the two teenagers by a police vehicle—was intensely scrutinised. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) previously confirmed that the driver of the police van had received notice that they were under criminal investigation for dangerous driving. In addition, the passenger officer in the van was issued with a gross misconduct notice related to their role in the incident.
Despite the investigation, the legal outcome regarding law enforcement accountability took a different turn. In April, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced their decision not to pursue criminal charges against any officers involved. Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS special crime division, commented on the case, extending condolences to the bereaved families. He said: “Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of the two teenagers following their tragic deaths. After carefully reviewing the evidence concerning the allegation of dangerous driving, we have determined that there is insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction.”
This decision triggered further disappointment for the families of Kyrees and Harvey, who have consistently called for accountability and clarity over the circumstances of their sons’ deaths. The CPS have indicated their willingness to meet with the families to explain their reasoning, and highlighted the Victim’s Right of Review scheme, which allows families to challenge prosecutorial decisions.
The Ely riots and their aftermath have left an indelible mark on the Cardiff suburb, prompting public debate over community relations, policing practices, and youth safety. The case continues to move through the courts, with many in the community awaiting final sentencing and a comprehensive understanding of the complex events that led to the night of unrest.
As this legal process unfolds, both the families affected and the wider public are watching closely, keen for closure but also for lessons to be learned from the chain of tragedies that began one fateful night in Ely. In the meantime, the community continues to reckon with the scars left behind and the pressing need for rebuilding trust and preventing future tragedies.