Families pay tribute to Jacob Patching and Jacob Skidmore, both 19, killed when their BMW hit a lamppost in Rotherham

From the Newshound archive · first published 10 October 2026 · last updated 11 October 2026.

Jacob Patching and Jacob Skidmore, both 19, were pronounced dead at the scene after their white BMW 3 Series left East Bawtry Road near Worrygoose roundabout in Rotherham and struck a lamppost on September 26. Jacob Patching's family called him 'a loyal, hardworking, caring and kind young man with a contagious sense of humour'. South Yorkshire Police have arrested a man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released him on bail. Officers are appealing for witnesses and believe the BMW was travelling alongside a blue BMW 4 Series before the crash.

'Nothing will ever be the same without him,' Jacob Patching's family said, thanking emergency services.

Jacob Skidmore's family remembered his 'great love for mending anything with an engine' and his work family at The Paint Factory.

Flowers have been left at the crash scene as police continue to investigate and appeal for witnesses.