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The family of a 17-year-old girl who was killed in a car crash in Fochriw last month have said their lives “will never be the same again without her”.

Chloe Hayman, from the Mountain Ash area, died on Sunday, July 24 after the beige Skoda Octavio she was a passenger in crashed near Brook Row.

Police were called to the scene just after 5am, while paramedics confirmed Chloe had died at the scene.

A 21-year-old man from Rhymney was arrested on suspicion of dangerous and drink driving. He has since been released on bail, with police inquiries ongoing.

It was the second fatal crash in the area in less than a week, following the deaths of 79-year-old Denise Hughes and 30-year-old Justine Hughes on July 20.

In a statement released to the media through Gwent Police, Chloe’s family said: “We can’t believe our beautiful loving daughter, kind caring sister to three little brothers has been taken so young.

“From the day Chloe was born, she was a determined and fiercely strong little girl who was beautiful inside and out.

“Chloe lived life to the full and brought so much joy and happiness to everyone’s lives.

“There was never a dull moment when Chloe was around.”

It continued: “Chloe brought happiness and love wherever she went and was loved by everyone who met her.

“She will be missed so much by everyone who knew her and had the chance to meet her.

“Our lives will never be the same again without her.”

Gwent Police is appealing for information relating to the crash and has urged any witnesses to come forward.

The force has also appealed for anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage in Bargoed, Deri or Fochriw between 4.40am and 5.10am on the day of the crash to get in contact.

Gwent Police can be contacted on 101 or through direct message on Facebook or Twitter, quoting log reference 2200247542.

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.