A collision resulting in the deaths of a driver and his two passengers was attributed to the driver being under the influence of cocaine. Scott Jeffery, aged 34, along with his passengers Lawrence Howells, 51, and Barrie John, 48, lost their lives when Jeffery’s Ford Puma collided head-on with a lorry on the A48 near Bonvilston in the Vale of Glamorgan, southeast Wales, shortly before 5 pm on April 1 last year.

An inquest determined that Jeffery’s consumption of cocaine played a significant role in the crash. The Pontypridd Coroner’s Court heard that Jeffery’s vehicle collided with a heavy goods vehicle traveling in the opposite direction on the A48.

Coroner Rachel Knight concluded that Jeffery’s death was a result of a road traffic collision, with cocaine use identified as a contributing factor. Jeffery, originally from Pontypridd and residing in Brackla, Bridgend at the time of the incident, was reportedly unemployed.

Last year, tributes were paid to Howells, from Porthcawl, and John, from Ferndale, by their families. In a statement released by South Wales Police, John’s family expressed their grief over the loss, describing him as a vibrant personality who brought laughter and energy into their lives. Howells’ family also requested privacy to mourn and remember Lawrence.

The tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of driving under the influence of drugs, serving as a reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible behavior behind the wheel.