More than 30 people charged with rioting after fatal e-bike accident

Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, died on the evening of May 22 last year when they crashed an electric bike, just minutes after CCTV captured them being followed by a South Wales Police van in Ely, Cardiff.

Tensions between local residents and police led to hours of riots in which dozens of police officers were injured, property was damaged and cars were set on fire.

According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), 31 people were charged – 27 for rioting and four for criminal damage or threatening to cause criminal damage.

Eight of the defendants are between 15 and 17 years old.

Jenny Hopkins, the CPS’s chief prosecutor for Wales, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all those involved that criminal proceedings are currently underway against these individuals and that they have a right to a fair trial.”

“It is of utmost importance that there are no reports, comments or exchanges of information on the Internet that could in any way compromise this process.”

Chief Superintendent Danny Richards of South Wales Police said: “During the disturbances, several vehicles were set on fire, property was damaged, police officers were injured and residents were left in fear and distress in their homes.

“After a thorough investigation by investigators from the special unit for the investigation of serious crimes, the public prosecutor’s office has brought charges of rioting, damage to property and threats of damage to property.

“We are extremely grateful for the support of the public during our investigation and are now awaiting the outcome of the court proceedings.”

The defendants will appear before Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on 19 and 20 September.

The driver of the police car that pursued the two teenagers is currently under criminal investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct for dangerous driving, after previously being served with a notice of gross misconduct.

Another officer, a passenger in the police car, had also previously received a summons for gross misconduct.