Men Charged in Court Following Fatal Crash Involving Rugby Referee

Two men have appeared in court, facing charges related to multiple driving offences, after a three-car collision resulted in the death of a 41-year-old rugby referee and serious injuries to his nine-year-old son. Rhys Jenkins and his son were traveling southbound in a Yaris on the A483 at Belan, near Welshpool, Powys, around 18:15 GMT on 16 November when their vehicle collided with a BMW X3 and an Audi S4, both traveling northbound. Dyfed-Powys Police stated that the men, aged 29 and 33, attended Welshpool Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Mr. Jenkins’ family, from Glynneath in Neath Port Talbot, and his rugby club both conveyed they were “devastated” by his death. His son remains hospitalized, recovering from his injuries. “Rhys was a devoted husband, father and family man and his loss is absolutely devastating for us all,” his family expressed. They added: “We are thankful for the support we have received since this truly awful incident and continue to be comforted by the well wishes.” Caereinion Old Boys Rugby Club in Meifod, Powys, posted on Facebook that he was “hugely valued and much loved”, and a “dedicated head coach of our under-10 side, devoting much time to support our young players demonstrating his knowledge and passion for the game”. The club further commented: “He was also a highly respected referee and had refereed games throughout Wales and New Zealand. “But above all, Rhys was a genuinely nice person who will be greatly missed – not just by his young team – but by everyone associated with the club.” The 29-year-old man is accused of six offences, which include drug driving, causing death by dangerous driving, and failing to stop after a collision. The 33-year-old man is facing four offences, including causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a collision. Police reported that both individuals were remanded into custody and are scheduled to appear in court again in December.