**Driver Who Killed 15-Year-Old on Zebra Crossing Sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court**
A Cardiff man who killed a 15-year-old girl while she was using a pedestrian crossing has been sentenced, bringing a tragic case to a close that has resonated throughout the local community. The incident, which occurred in May 2023, claimed the life of Keely Morgan, a teenager who was not only a pupil beloved by many but had recently survived a life-altering kidney transplant.
On the evening of 1st May 2023, Keely was struck while crossing Heol Trelai in Caerau, Cardiff. The driver, Christopher West, aged 42, had been travelling from Barry Island to Ely with his two daughters and their friend as passengers. As West approached the zebra crossing, Keely was making her way across, reportedly listening to music through her earphones and using her iPad.
Nearby residents recalled hearing a loud bang that night, quickly realising a collision had occurred. The situation rapidly drew the attention of passers-by, including a driver travelling behind West, who stopped and rushed to offer aid. Reports from the scene suggest West was highly distressed, repeatedly expressing his shock and sorrow, telling witnesses: “I have just hit her – I am so sorry” and “I didn’t see her. It was too dark. She came out of nowhere. I hit her.”
Keely was found lying by the roadside, suffering severe injuries to her head and face. Although off-duty medical personnel and local bystanders attempted CPR while awaiting the emergency services, the teenager was pronounced dead at 10:02pm, just minutes after the collision.
Following the incident, West remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. He tested negative for both alcohol and drugs. The Vauxhall Astra he was driving showed significant damage to its front offside and windscreen, indicating the force of the collision. Police arrested West, who in subsequent interviews explained he had not seen Keely until the impact, claiming a roadside sign had obstructed his view.
At Cardiff Crown Court, West, who is from Nottage Road in Ely, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. The court heard that he had a small number of previous convictions, none of which were related to driving. His guilty plea avoided the need for a full trial, although the emotional toll on Keely’s family and the local community remains significant.
During the sentencing hearing, the courtroom was filled with Keely Morgan’s relatives, visibly grieving as Judge Paul Hobson addressed the court. The details of West’s sentence were delivered in a solemn atmosphere, reflecting the gravity of the loss suffered by Keely’s family. While the court acknowledged West’s remorse and lack of intent, the judge also stressed the profound consequences of a moment’s inattention when behind the wheel.
The tragedy emphasises the ongoing importance of road safety, particularly around pedestrian crossings and in residential areas. Drivers are frequently reminded of the responsibility they bear for the safety of both their passengers and other road users—an obligation heightened whenever children are present.
Keely’s death has sparked renewed conversations locally regarding road safety education and visibility measures at crossings. While there is no way to undo the heartbreak experienced by Keely’s loved ones, campaigners hope that lessons from this case will prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the city comes to terms with the scale of this loss, Keely Morgan is remembered not only for her recent triumph over illness but also as a vibrant young person whose future was cut short. West’s sentencing marks the legal conclusion of one chapter, but the community’s mourning and call for greater vigilance on the roads will undoubtedly continue.