Man sentenced to just over one year for crash that killed teen
A man has been jailed for causing death by careless driving following a collision in 2023.
Christopher West, 42, from Ely, first appeared at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on April 8, 2025.
At that time, he pleaded guilty to causing death by careless/inconsiderate driving and causing death by driving a vehicle whilst unlicensed/uninsured.
On July 17, he was sentenced to one year and four months in prison at Cardiff Crown Court.
On Heol Trelai at 9:30pm on May 1, 2023 there was an ambulance report of a road traffic collision.
West was driving a black Vauxhall Astra from the direction of Cowbridge Road West as Keely Morgan was crossing the road on a zebra crossing.
West drove into Keely and though paramedics and Heli-med consultants attended she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Family tribute - “She had touched so many people”
Keely’s mum Sian Morgan and stepdad Liam Coulthard previously gave a tribute and said: “Our hearts are broken, and we never imagined anything like this would ever happen to us.
"Keely always had such a beautiful smile that would light up a room.
"She was sensible, kind and not one person ever had a bad word to say about her.
"In such a short time in this world, she had touched so many people and she had so many plans that have now been so cruelly taken away.”
The family added that they were “overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support” from their community and thanked those at the scene, including the emergency services.
They continued: "Rest in peace Keely. You will never be forgotten.”
At the time the following tribute was made by Martin Hulland, head teacher at Cardiff West Community High School, Ely, previously said that Keely was “an exceptional student who loved school” and was “a good friend to many”.
Mr Hulland added that Keely had overcome “serious health issues” and was “a superb role model to so many”.
Sergeant Hobrough said: "The tragic manner of Keely’s death has not only impacted her family and friends but the whole community.
"Christopher West's lack of care whilst behind the wheel has caused the most unbearable pain to Keely’s family and friends.
"This sentence will ensure that he is behind bars and unable to cause further harm."