A COMMUNITY has been left in shock following the death of three teenagers.

John Michael Jones, 18, and Leon Rice, 17, both from Ruthin and Colin Hornsby, 17, who was from Droylsden, Greater Manchester, all died in the crash on Friday night.

Michael, who was best friends with Leon, studied at Ysgol Brynhyfryd and was a supporter of North Wales Truck Gathering. Leon had also attended Ysgol Brynhyfryd.

Cllr Ian Lewney, Ruthin town mayor, said: "This is a very tragic for the town of Ruthin with the sad loss of these two young men.

"The town is a close knit community and will support each other through these difficult times.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of these young men."

Flowers and tributes have been left at the scene of the crash, which also injured four others.

One message stated: “Dear Leon and Michael, can’t believe this has happened. I keep hoping I get a message saying you are both okay.

“Missing you already. You are both going to be missed.

“Going to miss all the fun time, all the laughing and joking around.”

The crash, which happened on Graig Road between Denbigh and Trefnant, involved a Vauxhall Corsa and a Vauxhall Antara.

Four other people were also injured including two teenagers and a couple in their 60s.

A 16-year-old boy who was a passenger in the Corsa remains in a critical condition at hospital in Aintree, Liverpool.

The 68-year-old female passenger from the Vauxhall Antara remains in hospital with serious injuries.

The 66-year-old-man who was taken to Glan Clwyd Hospital remains in hospital and the 19-year-old man has since been discharged.

Sgt Leigh Evans of the Roads Policing Unit said: “A thorough investigation into the tragedy is ongoing in order that we can fully understand what happened.

“Our thoughts remain with the three families during this incredibly difficult time.

“All are being supported by specially-trained family liaison officers.”

He said police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to come forward.

“We have spoken to a number of people who present during the incident but we continue to appeal to anyone who we haven’t yet spoken with to get in touch.”

A convoy and lantern parade was held by North Wales Truck Gathering on Sunday night in respect of the young men.

Responding to messages on the Denbighshire Free Press Facebook page, Colin's mother Ann Marie Hornsby posted: "I am Colin's mum. Thank you from our family in Manchester.

"My husband, Colin's dad, is a truck driver. Wales is special to us as a family as we have a van in Criccieth and seeing this [the truck convoy] only adds to our love of Wales and the kindness it has shown to our family."