Devastated family of teenager killed in Bristol crash overwhelmed by support

The heartbroken family of a ‘kind and loving’ teenager tragically killed on a busy road in Bristol have thanked those who have raised thousands of pounds in his memory. Almost £7,000 has been raised to provide Alex Thompson, from Keynsham, with ‘a send off he deserves’ through a Go Fund Me page started by his sister Tara Connor.

The 18-year-old died when his Yamaha motorbike was involved in a crash with a car on the A4 Bath Road between Bristol and Keynsham last Thursday. He was on his way to pick up the keys to his first flat, his family said.

On Sunday, several hundred people joined Alex’s family for an emotional balloon release close to his home in Cleeve Grove in Keynsham. Money raised from the event will be added to the amount raised online, which stood at £6,612 on Monday afternoon.

Among the donations was £500 from Keynsham-based Fry Club. Messages were also left. Jazmin Doherty said: “Alex was the kindest, loveliest sweetest person. Wouldn’t hurt a fly. This world is too cruel, my heart goes out to the family sending love to you all.”

Millie Abel wrote: “Alex, you had a heart of pure gold and was such a happy and comforoverting spirit to be around. I will always admire how determined you were to create a life for yourself even when things were difficult you kept a smile on your face.”

And The New Inn pub, where Alex was a regular, also said: “Absolutely gutted to hear the passing of one of our regulars, the lovely Alex. R.I.P darling xx”

The family have responded to the support from the community. Speaking to Bristol World, Ms Connor said: “We really appreciate the support for my family and any donations made.”

On Saturday, in a tribute issued by the family said: “Alex was loved by everyone who he crossed paths with. He made a massive impact in just 18 short years of life and we have so much support from everyone that knew him at such a difficult time. He had his whole life ahead of him, he was on his way to pick up the keys to his first flat. He will forever make us proud.”

Police continue to investigate the crash, and are appealing for anyone travelling along the A4 Bath Road at the time of the incident, or who saw Alex’s motorcycle or a blue Vaunxhall Crossland up to tragedy, to call 101 and give the reference number 5223147737.

To donate to the Go Fund Me page, click on the link here.