Three teenagers killed in a crash with a bus on Monday had been to a funeral earlier that day, Sky News understands.

Eighteen-year-olds Morgan Smith and Jesse Owen and 19-year-old Callum Griffiths died at the scene.

Two others were taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff with what police said were life-threatening injuries.

Ely Valley Road, Coedely, was closed while officers investigated the crash involving an Audi A1 and a bus.

All three of the boys were local to the Rhondda Cynon Taf area.

Morgan Smith’s family said he was a “popular boy” and “well-loved”.

He was described as a “talented boxer” and an “up-and-coming star” who’s left “a void that can never be filled”.

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Callum Griffiths had “the most beautiful smile that would light up the room”, his family said.

Having qualified as a barber just over a year ago, he was a world champion kickboxer and had represented Wales all over the world.

His 15-year-old sister described him as her “best friend”.

The family of Jesse Owen called him “the most loving, happy, kind, calm and beautiful soul”.

They said they were “truly heartbroken” and he would be “sorely missed”.

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Danny Grehan, councillor for Tonyrefail East, told Sky News the mood was “heavy” within the local community.

“Any tragic accident is going to bring a lot of grief and a lot of pain,” he said.

“Obviously the loss of life in any event is a real hit for us as a community.”

South Wales Police are continuing to appeal for any dashcam footage which could help their investigation.

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