Man jailed following fatal road collision that killed his passenger

A 35-year-old man from Llanidloes has been jailed for 14 months following a road traffic collision near Rhayader which claimed the life of a woman in December 2024.

David William Owen was sentenced at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 7 October, after pleading guilty to causing death by careless driving.

The sentence comprises 12 months for causing death by careless driving and a further two months relating to a separate drug driving offence following an arrest in January 2026.

The fatal collision happened on the A470 between Rhayader and Doldowlod on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received a report of a single-vehicle collision at approximately 1.40pm.

Charlotte Beynon, from Burry Port, was a passenger in a white BMW M235 being drivenj by Mr Owen which collided with a bridge just outside Rhayader.

She was taken to hospital but died from her injuries on Monday, December 9, 2024.

Owen pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court on 8 July 2026.

Following the sentencing, PC Lucy Brookes, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “Today’s sentencing marks the end of a lengthy investigation into a collision which tragically claimed the life of a young woman.

“Charlotte touched the lives of so many people and will forever be missed. Charlotte’s family have showed huge strength throughout this investigation - a fitting tribute to a life taken far too soon.

“This incident is a reminder that the choices we make behind the wheel can have life-changing and devastating consequences.”