TRIBUTE | Remembering Ben Rafton: “A Fine Young Man” Whose Laughter Lit Up Every Room

TRIBUTE | Remembering Ben Rafton: “A Fine Young Man” Whose Laughter Lit Up Every Room

The family of 24-year-old Ben Rafton, who tragically lost his life in a road traffic collision in Torquay, have paid heartfelt tribute to a young man remembered for his infectious smile, boundless generosity, and love for those around him.

Ben, originally from Plymouth but living in Southampton, sustained fatal injuries in a collision involving a black Audi Q5, a blue Suzuki SV 650 motorcycle, and a grey Ford Ranger on Torwood Street, Torquay, on Sunday, August 31. Despite emergency efforts, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

“From a Happy Baby to a Fine Young Man”

Ben’s father, Barrie, described his son as someone who brought light and laughter wherever he went:

“Ben, from the happy baby you were to the fine young man you grew into. The short time you were given in life has been an extraordinary journey filled with a number of adventures. Your magnetic personality, your infectious smile and laughter will be missed by many.

As your dad my heart has been broken and my battle will be difficult beyond words. Sleep peacefully my precious youngest son, watch over us and keep us safe. Always in our hearts.”

“He Just Wanted to Make People Happy”

Ben’s mother, Somaya, spoke movingly of the deep bond she shared with her son:

“I can’t describe how much I miss my boy Ben. We spoke every day and FaceTimed pretty much 10 times within that day. Even though he didn’t live near me it was like he was down the road.

He loved his brothers, his dad, his nieces and nephews—he just loved children even though he didn’t have his own. I knew if he ever had children he would be the best daddy and would always be there for them through everything.

Ben loved life, he made me and everyone around him laugh. That was him—he just wanted to make people happy. The last messages I had from him were, ‘I love you mum,’ which he would say more than once a day.

He was very generous and loved spoiling his nieces and nephews with extravagant gifts. Ben was a mummy’s boy who just wanted me to be happy. He will be missed, and a massive part of me is empty at this moment.”

Somaya also expressed gratitude to the community for their kindness during this time of unimaginable grief:

“Thank you to everybody that has reached out and sent me beautiful flowers, messages, and helped me run my business whilst I grieve the loss of my son Ben.”

Investigation Ongoing

Police confirmed that the driver of the Audi, a man in his 20s from Plymouth, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released under investigation as inquiries continue.