Six Officers Face Misconduct Hearings Over Delayed Response to Fatal Cardiff Crash
Published 7 November 2025
Highlights
- Six police officers face misconduct proceedings over their handling of a fatal car crash in Cardiff that left three dead and two injured.
- The crash victims were not found until nearly 48 hours after being reported missing, raising concerns about police response.
- The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) found procedural failings in Gwent Police's handling of the missing persons reports.
- Families of the victims criticized the police for dismissing their concerns and failing to communicate effectively during the investigation.
- The disciplinary proceedings aim to address public confidence in policing and ensure accountability for the officers involved.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Six Officers Face Misconduct Hearings Over Delayed Response to Fatal Cardiff Crash
Six police officers are set to face disciplinary proceedings following their handling of a tragic car crash in Cardiff that resulted in the deaths of three young people. The incident, which occurred in March 2023, has sparked significant public concern over police response times and procedural integrity.
Delayed Discovery Raises Concerns
On March 4, 2023, five individuals—Sophie Russon, Eve Smith, Darcy Ross, Rafel Jeanne, and Shane Loughlin—went missing after a night out. Despite repeated appeals from family and friends, the group was not located until nearly 48 hours later, on March 6, when their vehicle was discovered crashed in undergrowth near the A48 in Cardiff. Tragically, Eve Smith, Darcy Ross, and Rafel Jeanne were found dead at the scene, while Sophie Russon and Shane Loughlin sustained critical injuries.
IOPC Investigation and Findings
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation into Gwent Police's response to the missing persons reports. Derrick Campbell, the IOPC director, emphasized the importance of thorough scrutiny to maintain public confidence in policing. The investigation revealed significant procedural failings, leading to the decision that six officers should face misconduct hearings.
Family Criticisms and Public Outcry
Families of the victims have voiced their dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the case. Emma Borg, Eve Smith's mother, expressed frustration over the lack of urgency and accountability, stating that the missing reports were initially dismissed. The IOPC's findings highlighted issues such as inadequate risk assessments and poor communication between Gwent Police and South Wales Police during the investigation.
Disciplinary Proceedings and Accountability
The disciplinary proceedings will address allegations of gross misconduct, including failures to conduct basic inquiries and dishonest reporting. A police sergeant and several constables are among those facing charges. The hearings aim to ensure accountability and restore public trust in the police force.
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Scenario Analysis
The upcoming disciplinary proceedings could have significant implications for public confidence in policing, particularly in handling missing persons cases. If the officers are found guilty of misconduct, it may prompt a review of current procedures and training within Gwent Police and potentially across other forces. Experts suggest that this case underscores the need for improved communication and coordination between police departments to prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the hearings progress, the outcome will likely influence public perception of police accountability and transparency.
Six police officers are set to face disciplinary proceedings following their handling of a tragic car crash in Cardiff that resulted in the deaths of three young people. The incident, which occurred in March 2023, has sparked significant public concern over police response times and procedural integrity.
Delayed Discovery Raises Concerns
On March 4, 2023, five individuals—Sophie Russon, Eve Smith, Darcy Ross, Rafel Jeanne, and Shane Loughlin—went missing after a night out. Despite repeated appeals from family and friends, the group was not located until nearly 48 hours later, on March 6, when their vehicle was discovered crashed in undergrowth near the A48 in Cardiff. Tragically, Eve Smith, Darcy Ross, and Rafel Jeanne were found dead at the scene, while Sophie Russon and Shane Loughlin sustained critical injuries.
IOPC Investigation and Findings
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation into Gwent Police's response to the missing persons reports. Derrick Campbell, the IOPC director, emphasized the importance of thorough scrutiny to maintain public confidence in policing. The investigation revealed significant procedural failings, leading to the decision that six officers should face misconduct hearings.
Family Criticisms and Public Outcry
Families of the victims have voiced their dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the case. Emma Borg, Eve Smith's mother, expressed frustration over the lack of urgency and accountability, stating that the missing reports were initially dismissed. The IOPC's findings highlighted issues such as inadequate risk assessments and poor communication between Gwent Police and South Wales Police during the investigation.
Disciplinary Proceedings and Accountability
The disciplinary proceedings will address allegations of gross misconduct, including failures to conduct basic inquiries and dishonest reporting. A police sergeant and several constables are among those facing charges. The hearings aim to ensure accountability and restore public trust in the police force.
What this might mean
The upcoming disciplinary proceedings could have significant implications for public confidence in policing, particularly in handling missing persons cases. If the officers are found guilty of misconduct, it may prompt a review of current procedures and training within Gwent Police and potentially across other forces. Experts suggest that this case underscores the need for improved communication and coordination between police departments to prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the hearings progress, the outcome will likely influence public perception of police accountability and transparency.
