Rugby player killed in crash in Halifax that left three men dead

Tributes have been paid to the first victim of a car crash that killed three young friends.

Corey Graham, 22, died in the three-car collision in Illingworth, Halifax which saw three people in a BMW arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Another 22-year-old man, and a 21-year-old, in the same Ford Fiesta as Mr Graham were also pronounced dead at the scene.

A 21-year-old man was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries where he remains.

The occupants of the BMW, a man aged 37, and two women aged 18 and 32, all from Halifax have are still in police custody this morning.

The third vehicle, a Renault Clio, was stationary and unoccupied at the time of the collision.

A tribute from Mr Graham’s teammate at Boothtown rugby club said: ‘Today we are waking up to terrible news that no one wants to believe but sadly one of our own Corey Graham has passed away last night.

‘Corey had a smile on his face constantly and made everyone laugh. Corey loved his rugby from watching his dad play and playing at Boothtown. Corey like his dad had rugby in his veins.

‘A great guy on the field, even better off.’

DS Paul Lightowler said: ‘Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the people who died. Specially trained officers will be supporting the families involved.

‘This is a tragic incident and extensive enquiries are ongoing at the scene this morning.  

‘I would like to appeal to anyone who was travelling in the area yesterday evening who may have witnessed the collision to come forward.  

‘We are also keen to see any dash-cam footage of the vehicles prior to the collision.’