Halifax crash: Flowers and huge outpouring of love for three young men killed in car accident
Halifax is in mourning for three of the town’s much-loved young men who died in a car crash last night.
Tributes have been pouring in for Corey Graham, Tom Reilly and Cass Bryant.
Flowers have also been placed at the scene of the accident, which happened shortly before 6.50pm yesterday at the junction of Cobblestones Drive in Illingworth.
One message left with the flowers says: “What boys you were.
"Had the pleasure of knowing you all and had the pleasure of call you all mates growing up.
"Such a heartbreaking loss and gone too soon.”
Another reads: “Gone but never forgotten Cassius Bryant. The most precious soul.”
And another describes Corey as having a “heart of gold”.
Dozens of other people have been sharing their shock and sadness at the loss of the young men on social media.
Another 21-year-old man, who was in the same car as the three who died, was taken to hospital with injuries which police have described as life-threatening.
As reported by the Courier earlier, football club AFC Crossleys has posted: “Everyone at Crossleys open is devastated to learn of the tragic loss of three young lads – Corey, Cassius and Tom - who have all been part of our Crossley's family over the years.
"They were great lads and loved by everyone.
"Cass was one of the brightest players on our team with a load of potential. If he wasn’t playing, he was living his best life abroad.
"Tom was a top supporter wherever the team were playing, you know Tom wasn’t far behind bringing the joy between the lads.
"Corey was also another top supporter. If he wasn’t supporting us, he was doing what he did best and that was playing rugby for Boothtown Terriers Juniors ARLFC.
"All three always came into the club socialising with the boys.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their families, friends, and everyone affected at this incredibly difficult time.
"No words can truly express the heartbreak felt across our community.
"They will always be remembered, and their loss will be felt by so many.
"Rest in peace, lads.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out Spencer and his family, who remains in hospital at this time. Keep fighting young man.”
Rugby club Boothtown ARLFC has paid tribute to Corey, saying: “The club is devastated by the tragic loss of our player Corey.
"Our thoughts are with Nev, Paula and their family at this difficult time.”
Lindon Batley, from the club, also paid tribute, describing Corey as a “great guy on the field, even better off”.
"Corey had a smile on his face constantly and made everyone laugh,” he said.
"Corey loved his rugby from watching his dad play and playing at Boothtown.
"Corey, like his dad, had rugby in his veins. A great guy on the field, even better off.”
Siddal Rugby League Club has said: “Corey previously played at Siddal, and rugby was always a big part of his life.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected at this incredibly difficult time.
"We send our love to Corey’s family and all who knew him.
"Our sincere condolences also go out to everyone at Boothtown ARLFC, and to all the families affected by this tragic accident, in which far too many lives have been lost.
"Rest in peace, Corey Graham – taken far too soon.”
The accident involved a Ford Fiesta, a BMW and a parked, unoccupied, Renault Clio.
Corey, Cass, Tom and the 21-year-old who was taken to hospital were all in the Ford Fiesta.
The occupants of the BMW – a 37-year-old man and two women, aged 18 and 32, all from Halifax – were arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Anyone with information that might help with the police’s investigation is being asked to contact police via 101 or use the live chat facility at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat quoting log 1558 of March 19.