A driver has admitted causing the death of a father-of-two in a hit-and-run incident that occurred in a rural Welsh village churchyard. Daniel Wyke, aged 28, entered a guilty plea at Swansea Crown Court for the charge of causing the death of Aaron Jones, 38, by dangerous driving.
Tragic Incident Two Days Before Christmas
The fatal collision took place on December 23, 2024, in the village of Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, Wales. Mr Jones was walking his dog in the grounds of the Llanpumsaint (Caer-Salem) Baptist Chapel when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Wyke. The driver fled the scene, leaving Mr Jones with life-threatening injuries. He was pronounced dead at the location shortly after his body was discovered.
Search Launched After Dog Found Wandering
A local man found Mr Jones's dog wandering alone in the village on the evening of December 23, 2024. This prompted immediate concern, leading the man to contact Lisa Haf Jones, the wife of the property developer. A search was quickly initiated, culminating in the tragic discovery of Mr Jones's body in the local church grounds.
Delayed Charges and Court Proceedings
Wyke, a resident of Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire, was arrested the day after the incident in 2024. However, he was not formally charged with causing death by dangerous driving until December 2025, a full year later. In court, Wyke pleaded guilty to this primary charge but denied a separate count of dangerous driving related to an incident on Water Street in Carmarthen, which occurred a year after the fatal crash.
Prosecution Details and Sentencing Considerations
Prosecution barrister Ian Wright informed the court that the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run sustained extensive damage to its windscreen. Mr Wright also noted that the second dangerous driving charge would be treated as an aggravating feature during sentencing, potentially influencing the severity of the punishment.
Community Reaction and Funeral
The village of Llanpumsaint was described as "so quiet" following the tragic death by local councillor Bryan Davies. Mr Jones, a well-known local figure, was remembered by friends and neighbours as a "lovely guy." His funeral was held on Saturday, January 18, with donations encouraged for the Sandy Bear Children's Bereavement Charity, which has received £4,470 so far. Mourners laid flowers near the scene as a tribute.
Bail and Driving Disqualification
Judge Paul Thomas KC granted bail to Wyke but imposed an immediate driving disqualification. A provisional sentencing date has been set for Monday, March 30, where the court will consider all factors, including the aggravating feature of the second charge.
This case highlights the devastating impact of dangerous driving in quiet communities, with legal proceedings continuing as the community mourns the loss of a beloved father and resident.
