A family in Worksop experienced a devastating emotional rollercoaster after South Yorkshire Police incorrectly informed them their teenage son had died in a horrific pre-Christmas car crash, only for the boy to wake from a coma three weeks later.
A Tragic Collision and a Heartbreaking Mistake
The incident began on December 13 in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. Police responded to a serious collision where a silver Toyota Corolla, travelling away from Dinnington, left the carriageway. Two young adults, 18-year-old Joshua Johnson and an unnamed 17-year-old girl, were tragically killed.
In the immediate aftermath, police contacted the family of 17-year-old Trevor 'TJ' Wynn from Worksop, Nottinghamshire. They were told he had died at around 3am, less than two weeks before Christmas. Heartbroken, his loved ones began planning a funeral, scheduled for a Friday, and set up a GoFundMe page to cover the costs.
The 'Important Update': A Miraculous Awakening
Three weeks after the crash, the family's world was turned upside down. Trevor Wynn woke from a coma. He was able to tell doctors his name and date of birth, revealing a catastrophic error in identification.
The family swiftly posted a stunning update on their fundraiser. "IMPORTANT UPDATE – PLEASE READ," it began. "Following recent confirmation, it has now come to light that TJ is alive. The police initially made a mistake and identified the wrong person, and we were informed incorrectly at the time."
The message explained that their focus had shifted entirely to supporting TJ's long road to recovery, which will involve significant medical care, rehabilitation, and associated family expenses.
Police Referral and Ongoing Investigations
South Yorkshire Police have publicly acknowledged the grave error. Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane stated: "This has obviously come as a huge shock to everyone and we recognise the additional trauma this may cause."
The force has taken the significant step of referring itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to scrutinise the identification processes followed after the collision. ACC McFarlane added that the force is "absolutely committed to understanding how this happened so it cannot happen again" and is supporting all families affected.
In a separate development linked to the crash, an 18-year-old was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and a 19-year-old was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. Both remain on bail as enquiries continue.
The family's GoFundMe update concluded with a plea for continued support, stating: "Every single share, donation, and message has come from a place of love — and that love is still needed now more than ever."
