Tributes paid to ‘family with a heart of gold’ after 4 die in West Yorkshire A61 horror crash

Heartfelt tributes have poured in for a family of four who died in a devastating crash on the A61 in West Yorkshire.

Shannen Morgan and Shane Roller, believed to be accompanied by their daughters Lillie and Rubie, were involved in a collision with a motorbike on the stretch between Barnsley and Wakefield on Sunday afternoon (July 21).

The fatal crash happened when the Ford Focus and a motorbike crashed near Newmillerdam, West Yorkshire at 3.54pm, killing both the rider and their passenger.

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Family members shared their grief and commemorated the couple’s life. Callum Roller, Shane’s brother, took to social media to express his shock and deep loss, admitting he was ‘speechless’ and his heart was ‘torn into a million pieces’.

“Today we lost two of our nieces my sister in law and my wonderful brother in a car accident,” Callum wrote. “I am absolutely devastated. I will miss you all! It broke my heart and I absolutely broke both sides of the families! You all had a heart of gold and you will all be missed like crazy! My heart Shannen’s side of the family and I are enjoying ourselves! We’re all in absolute shock!”, as reported by the Mirror, Yorkshire Live.

A family friend was overwhelmed by the loss. “Life is so cruel,” said Beth Rose Brittain, who was deeply connected to the family, referring to Shannen as “my extra sister.” Overcome with emotion, she said, “I can’t speak. Without words. Sleep well my little Roller family, your memory will live on forever”.

Chelsea, another close friend of Shannen’s, said: “The horse has gained a beautiful family.” Her emotional eulogy highlighted the deep void left behind: “There are no words to describe the total loss this has created for family/friends and the community around us. I hope you are at peace Shannen Morgan and Shane Roller with your beautiful girls. “.

Following Sunday’s collision, the community rallied to support the grieving family with a GoFundMe initiative for the couple’s surviving child. The fundraiser quickly raised over £8,000.

Flowers were laid at the side of the road on Monday (July 22) as officers continued their inquiries at the scene.

Superintendent Alan Travis of Wakefield District Police shared his condolences, saying: “This is an absolutely tragic incident which has resulted in the loss of six lives. Our thoughts go out to the families of those who have died with whom we are working to provide support. At the moment.” He also urged anyone with information or footage from the dashboard to step forward, asking them to contact West Yorkshire Police by calling 101.