Family pay tribute after "exceptional son", 18, dies following Tiverton collision
Kyan Dunn, died after sustaining life-threatening injuries in the collision earlier this month
Last updated 19th May 2026
An 18-year-old man has died after a collision in Tiverton earlier this month and his family have paid tribute describing him as an "exceptional son."
Emergency services were called at 4.19pm on Saturday 2 May after an incident on Newport Street at the junction with St Peter Street.
The collision involved a black Yamaha motorcycle and a white Ford Transit box truck.
Kyan Dunn, from Tiverton, sustained life-threatening injuries and was hospitalised but has since died as a result of his injuries.
He was one of two local males on the motorcycle. A 17-year-old boy was also taken to hospital with injuries which were not life-threatening.
On behalf of his family, Mr Dunn’s mother, Sophie Thomas, has paid tribute to him.
She said: I would like to pay tribute to a truly exceptional son who tragically passed away following an accident on Saturday 2 May.
“Kyan passed away on Saturday 9 May surrounded by his immediate family listening to his music. The love in the room was immeasurable.
“There really aren't enough words to describe the loss that we all feel.
“Kyan was the ultimate larger-than-life character, who you couldn't help but love and form a connection with. He is known for being relentlessly kind, sincere, polite, brave, articulate, caring, affectionate, thoughtful, quirky and full of life. Kyan had an affinity with animals his whole life. Dogs in particular always gravitated towards him.
“From the moment he was born he did things on his terms, was wholly unique and a pleasure to be around. Cheeky, forthright and had a strong moral compass. He felt very deeply and was not afraid to make his feelings known.
“Kyan was so incredibly sharp he could tie anyone up in knots with his quick responses. He would have you laughing no matter what mood you may be in, especially with his funny faces.
“Everywhere he went, he was listening to his music, a passion which was apparent from when he was a toddler.
“Kyan wrote music, loved playing guitar and singing. He was in the process of writing songs in his band with his best friends Rafi, Monte and Leo, who he loved immensely.
“I recall so fondly him singing in the kitchen while cooking up a storm, whistling, always moving, never still. He had an incredible work ethic, always looking to help others and do his best.
“He was not just a brother but best friend to Ethan. He was a loving brother to his younger siblings and cared very deeply for each of them. He will be sorely missed by his siblings Ethan, Kaedon, Ellora, Brody and Alice.
“His dad Mike, stepdad Ollie, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins will feel his loss forever. There is a Kyan-shaped hole in all our lives and life will never be the same.
“Kyan was lucky enough to find love with his amazing girlfriend Megan, his leading lady who was by his side throughout. We are incredibly proud of her. He had plans to travel to New Zealand with Megan and was due to move into his first home with her. Her Mum Mo was a great support and friend to him throughout the time they were together.
“We would like to express our sincerest thanks and gratitude to the incredible ambulance crew, fire crew and huge list of medical staff who cared for him tirelessly in Accident and Emergency (A&E) Exeter and on the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Derriford. We are so grateful of the care provided by the NHS. Also, to the staff at Jack Rabbit Derriford - the kindness of strangers is truly heartwarming and won't be forgotten.
“I love you endlessly my boy. We are all so proud of you. There is a light that will never go out"
“The family requests that anyone who wishes to make a donation in memory of Kyan, to make a donation to Spring Intensive Care Charity Plymouth, Reg. No 297613, who provided exemplary care to Kyan around the clock during his time at Derriford.”
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are appealing for anyone witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.