Two friends, both 19, killed after BMW collided with a lamppost are pictured as grieving families pay tribute

Published: 13:59 EDT, 10 October 2026 | Updated: 14:24 EDT, 10 October 2026 Two friends who died after a BMW collided with a lamppost have been pictured.Jacob Patching and Jacob Skidmore - both aged 19 - were driving on East Bawtry Road in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, when their vehicle careered off the carriageway and hit the lamppost on September 26. Emergency services rushed to the scene but the pair were pronounced dead at around 6.45pm. South Yorkshire Police are now supporting the families through the force's family liaison officers. Flowers have been left at the scene of the crash. Paying tribute to Jacob Patching, his family described him as 'a loyal, hardworking, caring and kind young man with a contagious sense of humour'. They continued: 'Our whole lives have changed beyond measure in an instant and the pain left behind is immeasurable. Nothing will ever be the same without him.'We would like to express our gratitude to the emergency services and the wider community affected by this tragedy.' Pictured: Jacob Skidmore, who died on September 26 after a BMW collided with a lamppost Pictured: Jacob Patching. His family described him as 'a loyal, hardworking, caring and kind young man with a contagious sense of humour'The family of Jacob Skidmore said: 'We would like to thank all that are supporting us through this time. Jacob was loved by all who knew him, especially his work family at The Paint Factory, his girlfriend and his friends.'He had a great love for mending anything with an engine as his mates know this well enough. He has left a big hole in our family that will never close. Forever in our hearts. Love Mum, Dad, Brothers and Sister.'An investigation is continuing into the tragedy and police have appealed for witnesses. In a statement, South Yorkshire Police said: 'Our thoughts remain with the families, friends, and wider community affected by the loss of Jacob and Jacob.'We are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and urge anyone with information or footage to contact us.'