Family and rugby club lead tributes to 19-year-old killed in Bridgwater crash
A man has been charged following the incident on the A38 on Tuesday
Following a crash earlier this week, it has now been announced the 19-year-old who died in a four-car crash in Bridgwater was a rugby player for Bridgwater and Albion Rugby Football Club.
Last night (November 10), the family of Beth Branson led tributes.
The 19-year-old was travelling with a female friend in a white Citroen crossing the A38 junction of St John Street to Eastover when they were involved in a four-vehicle collision, at around 9.50pm on Tuesday 9 November.
Bethany died at the scene as a result of her injuries.
Bethany’s parents, Amy and Ben, said: “Today our hearts have been torn in two. Our beautiful, brave, and unbelievably special baby girl, Bethany, has been taken from us.
“She will always be so cherished and loved in our hearts and we know that she was loved by so many around her.
“Today, the world suddenly seems a much, much sadder place.”
On Wednesday evening, her rugby club also paid tribute, saying 'rest in peace, taken far too soon' on their website.
Among the tributes, Geoff Sluman, Director of Rugby for Albion said: "This is such incredibly sad news, I would regularly see Beth at the Womens games at Womens training and generally in and around the club house.
"She was always a lovely person and great team member and club person. She always walked around the place with a smile on her face even when, or I should say especially when, she was active on the rugby pitch with her team mates.
"My condolences go to Beth’s family and friends."
Two people were arrested following the incident and one man has now been charged following the collision.
Luke Hawkes, 29 of Wadham Close, Bridgwater, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and failing to provide a sample of breath.
Hawkes appeared at Taunton Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Thursday 10 November).
He has been remanded into custody and will next appear at Taunton Crown Court on Friday 9 December.
A second man, who was arrested following the incident, has been released under investigation.
The family are grateful for the support they have received from the public and now request privacy as they mourn the loss of Bethany. The family are being support by a specially trained officer during this difficult time.