UPDATE | Driver Killed in South Molton Crash Named as 22-Year-Old Connor Hobbs
SOUTH MOLTON, Devon — A young man who tragically lost his life in a serious two-vehicle collision near South Molton has been formally identified as Connor Hobbs, aged 22. The fatal crash occurred on Monday, 12 May, just one week before Connor’s 23rd birthday, and has left the local community in deep mourning.
The incident took place at approximately 2:55 p.m. on an unclassified rural road at Kingsland Barton, near South Molton. Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed the collision involved a black Honda Civic, driven by Mr. Hobbs, and a brown Scania HGV. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, but tragically, Connor was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
Family Pays Tribute to “Our Lovely Boy”
Connor’s devastated family issued a heartfelt statement in the wake of the tragedy:
“The family and friends of Connor Hobbs are devastated by his tragic death on Monday 12 May in the collision, a week short of his 23rd birthday.
We are grateful for the loving comments and pictures that have been shared of our lovely boy who held family and friends dear to his heart.
We would politely request that we are now left alone to grieve and process the events of his death.”
Described by those who knew him as warm-hearted, loyal, and full of life, Connor was a well-known face in South Molton, having grown up in the area. Friends and former classmates have taken to social media to share memories, express shock, and offer condolences to his grieving family.
One local resident said, “Connor was one of the good ones. Always had a smile and time for people. I can’t believe he’s gone.”
Ongoing Investigation
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police, who continue to appeal for witnesses and information. Officers are working to piece together the sequence of events that led to the tragic crash and are especially interested in hearing from anyone who may have seen either vehicle prior to the incident or who may have dashcam footage that could aid in their enquiries.
“We are continuing our investigation into this tragic incident and would urge anyone with relevant information to contact us,” a police spokesperson said.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact the police either via their website or by calling 101, quoting log 444 of 12/05/25.
Community in Mourning
The death of such a young life has cast a shadow over the South Molton area, where residents are still grappling with the sudden loss. A small memorial has already begun to form near the site of the crash, with flowers, candles, and notes left by friends and family.
“This has really shaken the community,” said a local shop owner. “We’re a small town, and everyone knows everyone. Connor’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life is.”
As the investigation continues, the thoughts of the community remain with Connor’s loved ones — his family, his friends, and all who knew and cherished him. His death is not only a personal tragedy for those closest to him, but a deeply felt loss for the wider community.
Rest in peace, Connor Hobbs.