Tributes to two men killed in Whippingham Road crash

Their families have been paying tribute.

Taylor's family said: “Our son and brother Taylor was the best, he was loving, caring and kind. We are so lucky to have had him for 20 years. He has left a hole in our lives that can never be filled. Our hearts go out to Owen's family, who must be as heartbroken as we are.”

Owen’s family said: “Owen was the most amazing, kind, gentle, funny boy. We are lucky to have had him in our lives, and we will miss him every day for the rest of ours.”

A third man was also injured, when a silver Honda Civic and a silver Toyota Proace van collided at the junction with Alverstone and East Cowes roads.

The road was closed for around nine hours, on Tuesday, January 11, while emergency crews responded and an investigation was launched.

Flowers have since been laid at the site of the crash, one of the worst on the Isle of Wight in recent years, by those dealing with their grief and shock.

Firefighters from Newport and East Cowes and Isle of Wight ambulance crew members were among those to respond.

Police officers have appealed for witnesses.

Islanders are asked to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Hostel or the reference number 44220012949.

Hampshire Constabulary has also called for dash cam footage showing the collision, or the moments beforehand.

Senior Investigating Officer, Sergeant Jamie Barron, said: “This is a tragic incident in which two young men have sadly lost their lives.

"An investigation is already underway in order to establish the exact circumstances leading up to the incident and our enquiries remain ongoing at this time."

While the road was closed, long and busy diversions were in place to East Cowes, via Wootton and Alverstone, or through Cowes, on the floating bridge.