An 11-year-old girl has tragically lost her entire family in a devastating accident that claimed the lives of her mother, father, and two younger sisters. The heartbreaking incident occurred on the A61 between Wakefield and Barnsley, leaving the young girl without her parents and siblings, changing her life forever.
The crash involved a Ford Focus carrying the family and a motorcycle. In addition to the family, the motorcycle rider and a female passenger also lost their lives in the tragic accident, which occurred just before 4 p.m. on a Sunday afternoon. The family members who perished in the crash were identified as Shannen Morgan, Shane Roller, and their two youngest daughters, Lillie and Rubie.
The couple’s surviving child, their eldest daughter, is now left without her immediate family. In the wake of this unimaginable loss, friends, relatives, and the community have rallied around the young girl. A fundraiser has been started to support her, with one organizer describing her as having “lost her whole world in an instant.” Despite her profound grief, those around her have been deeply moved by her resilience and strength. “Every day, she shows incredible strength, even though she has lost so much,” said the person organizing the fundraiser, adding that the community is committed to ensuring that the girl will always have support and love.
Photographs taken at the scene show the devastating wreckage of the family’s vehicle, which was severely damaged and burned out following the collision. The police confirmed that Shannen, Shane, Rubie, and Lillie all died at the scene, along with the two individuals on the motorcycle.
Shane’s brother, Calum, expressed his grief, stating he was “lost for words” and “absolutely heartbroken.” He mourned the loss of his loved ones, saying, “I’ll miss all of you! You all had such good hearts. My heart is broken into a million pieces.” His profound sorrow was shared by many, including family friends who have spoken out about the impact this tragedy has had on their lives.
One of Shannen’s close friends, Chelsea Element, took to social media to express her deep sadness over the loss of her dear friend. “You are and always will be one of my best friends,” Chelsea wrote. “There are no words to describe how much this hurts our family, friends, and the people in our community.” She also expressed her hope that Shannen, Shane, and their daughters would find peace together, adding, “Everyone will always look after [their eldest daughter], she will never want for anything. She has the love of everyone.”
Shannen’s cousin, Beth Brittain, also shared her heartache, stating, “My brain won’t accept what’s happened; my heart hurts.” Beth reflected on her close relationship with Shannen, whom she considered more than just a cousin. “You were always like an extra sister to me, not just a cousin. We grew up together. I just can’t talk. No words. Sleep tight, my little Roller family. I will always remember you.”
The broader community has been deeply affected by the tragedy as well, with many expressing shock and disbelief. One friend said, “My heart is completely broken. I’m lost and numb. It’s hard to believe that all four of you are gone.”
Public officials have also acknowledged the devastating loss. Dan Jarvis, the MP for Barnsley North and security minister, expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Devastating news. I am very sorry for the loss of those loved ones. My thoughts are with their families and friends.”
Superintendent Alan Travis of the Wakefield District Police also commented on the incident, calling it an “absolutely tragic event that has claimed the lives of six people.” He added, “Our thoughts go out to the families of those who have died. We are working closely with them to provide support at this difficult time.”
