A 28-year-old man has appeared before magistrates, accused of causing the death of a father-of-two in an alleged hit-and-run collision just days before Christmas.
Village Tragedy Days Before Christmas
Aaron Jones, aged 38, died on 23 December 2024 after being struck by a car while walking his dog near a roadside church in the village of Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire. The vehicle involved is alleged to have left the scene.
The alarm was raised after a local resident found Mr Jones's dog wandering alone in the village. This discovery prompted an immediate search, which led to the devastating find of Mr Jones's body on the grounds of the Caer Salem Baptist Chapel.
Court Appearance and Community Grief
Daniel Wyke, a 28-year-old takeaway worker from Carmarthen, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. He appeared at Llanelli Magistrates' Court, where he spoke only to confirm his personal details. No plea was entered during the hearing.
Wyke was granted bail and is scheduled to appear at Swansea Crown Court next month. It is notable that the charge was brought twelve months after the fatal incident, following what police described as a lengthy investigation.
The local community has been deeply affected by the loss. Aaron Jones was described as a "lovely guy" who was actively involved in work for his local area. Local councillor Bryan Davies said the village had been left "so quiet" in the wake of the "tragic" death.
Police Investigation and Family Support
Sergeant Sara John of the Dyfed-Powys Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit expressed the force's ongoing support for the bereaved family. "Our thoughts remain with Aaron's family, who continue to be at the heart of this investigation," she stated.
She acknowledged the protracted nature of the enquiry, adding: "We recognise that this has been a lengthy investigation, and I am grateful to Aaron's family, and the wider community, for their patience and support while our enquiries have been carried out."
The sergeant confirmed that police would continue to support the family as the case progresses through the courts, with the aim of securing justice for Aaron Jones and his loved ones. An inquest has previously heard the circumstances surrounding the father-of-two's death.
