TRIBUTES have been paid to the two men from Stockton and Southam killed in an horrific car crash at the weekend.
Ryan Case, Nathan Rhodes and Emily Jennings died after a Citroen Saxo travelling on the A425 in Leamington left the road and smashed into a tree around 2.45am on Saturday morning (June 20).
A 20-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving under the influence of alcohol but has since been bailed until July 31.
Nathan, a 23-year-old builder, lived in Southam while father-of-two Ryan, from the nearby village of Stockton, worked for Praxair Surface Technologies. Mum-of-one Emily, a beautician, lived in Warwick.
Since the accident, the scene of the crash has been flooded with flowers and cards paying tribute to the trio.
One of the most poignant was left by Nathan’s mother. It read: “I know I am never going to see your smiling face again but I will never forget it. I love you so much and always will my darling boy. Sleep tight my guardian angel.”
Nathan’s brother Simon also left a message at the scene. He wrote: “I really hope you’re enjoying it up there. I cannot tell you how much you’re going to be missed. I truly did love you and I’ll never be the same without you.”
Tributes were also paid to 25-year-old Ryan, who was well-known throughout the Midlands for his skill and passion as a fisherman.
In a post on their Facebook page, the Bowling Green pub wrote: “We are all very shocked and would like to send our deepest sympathies and wishes to the family of Ryan Case, who enjoyed life to the full.
“Butters you will not be forgotten and we know you will be catching your beloved carp in heaven.”
Zoe Haynes left a tribute to Ryan at the scene, which echoed many people’s sentiments for the loss suffered by the family and friends of all three victims.
She wrote: “Sorry to all the families that lost somebody in this accident. RIP Ryan. Such a tragic thing to happen. My heart is with your family and two daughters. You were a friend to many and will be missed.”
Meanwhile Carl Hanson, Emily’s ex-boyfriend and father of her nine-year-old daughter, Phoebe, posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook.
It said: “Thank you so much for giving me my first beautiful daughter. We were so young but you have managed to make her into the amazing young lady she is today.
“Also want to pass on my condolences to the families of Ryan and Nathan, who were good friends of mine. Heaven has certainly gained three angels.”
A 21-year-old man, who was also travelling in the car, suffered serious injuries and had to be taken to University Hospital where his condition is described as ‘stable’.
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward as part of their investigation. Anyone with any information is asked to call 101.
