Neath man said girlfriend died in crash, but forensics revealed the truth
BBC World
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A man claimed his girlfriend died in a car crash on a remote mountain road, but forensics uncovered a shocking truth. Jenna Watkins, 21, was found thrown from her vehicle on the Bwlch mountain road in south Wales, seemingly killed instantly. However, upon closer examination, her injuries—severe bruising and crushed larynx—suggested she had been strangled rather than died in an accident.
Jenna’s mother, Pauline Watkins, received a panicked call from her daughter just before the incident. Jenna described Jason Shaddick, her boyfriend, driving recklessly and screaming at her. The phone went dead shortly after, leaving Pauline devastated when police later revealed the truth. Shaddick, who initially claimed self-defense, refused to answer questions during the investigation.
Forensic evidence showed Jenna had no chest injuries typical of a seatbelt wearer in a crash, and her bruising pattern did not match road impact abrasions. Instead, her injuries indicated strangulation. Shaddick’s refusal to cooperate led police to dig deeper into his and Jenna’s relationship. Testimony from Pauline revealed Jenna had been a loving daughter who often brought gifts for her family, despite enduring abuse from Shaddick.
The case highlights the dangers of intimate partner violence and the importance of thorough forensic analysis in suspicious deaths. It serves as a cautionary tale about the need for vigilance among loved ones and law enforcement when assessing such cases. The truth behind Jenna Watkins’ death is a tragic reminder of the hidden struggles many face in silent partnerships.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/14/2026