“WE WILL MISS THEM SO MUCH” — FAMILIES PAY HEARTBREAKING TRIBUTES TO KAREN AND DAVID COZENS AFTER FATAL CAMPERVAN CRASH

Karen Cozens, 60, and David Cozens, 52, died after their campervan collided with a lorry on a Somerset road. Now, their families have spoken of their devastating loss, remembering a couple who were loved by everyone around them.

Two families have been left heartbroken after a beloved couple lost their lives in a devastating road collision in Somerset.

Karen Cozens, 60, and David Cozens, 52, from Minehead, died when their campervan collided with a lorry on the A358 in Combe Florey, near Taunton, during the early hours of September 30, 2026.

The collision happened at approximately 6:40 a.m. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but both Karen and David were pronounced dead at the roadside.

Now, their loved ones have shared emotional tributes, revealing the enormous hole their deaths have left in the lives of their families.

“THEY WERE LOVED BY EVERYONE”

In a statement released through Avon and Somerset Police, Karen’s family described the couple as two people who were deeply loved by everyone who knew them.

They shared how Karen and David enjoyed spending time together, particularly going on camping trips, watching banger racing and walking their dogs.

But among the most heartbreaking words in the family’s tribute was their wish that the couple had been given more time.

“We will miss them so much and we only wish they had more time to watch their grandchildren grow up.”

Karen was remembered as an incredible woman with a heart of gold, someone who had touched the lives of so many people.

Her family described her as a friend to many and the light of their family.

“The pain of losing her cannot be described,” they said.

DAVID’S SON SHARES EMOTIONAL FAREWELL

David’s son, Matthew, also paid tribute to his father in a deeply personal message.

He remembered David as a devoted family man who always put his loved ones first and was there whenever they needed him.

“Dad always put his family first and was always there for us when we needed him,” Matthew said.

He described his father as the patriarch of the family, someone who was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren.

David was also remembered for his cheerful personality and ability to brighten the day of those around him.

“He was the man who always had a smile to brighten everyone’s day,” his son recalled.

Matthew then shared words that captured the pain of losing his father:

“The days are becoming shorter but the pain of missing you is only getting harder.”

He ended his tribute with a message of love that will stay with his family:

“Dad, your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”

THREE STRANGERS TRIED TO HELP

Karen’s family also expressed their gratitude to the emergency services, the air ambulance and three members of the public who stopped to help following the collision.

Their efforts, the family said, would never be forgotten.

The families have been receiving support from specially trained police family liaison officers as they navigate the difficult days following the tragedy.

INQUEST INTO THEIR DEATHS ADJOURNED

An initial inquest hearing was opened at Taunton Coroner’s Court on October 12.

The preliminary hearing established that David was driving the white Mazda Bongo campervan, with Karen travelling as a passenger.

Both suffered multiple injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The inquests have been adjourned until May 12, 2027, while further enquiries continue.

Police are also appealing for witnesses and anyone who may have information about the collision to come forward.

TWO LIVES THAT WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN

For Karen and David’s families, the grief goes far beyond the loss of two loved ones.

It is the family celebrations they will no longer attend, the camping trips that will never happen and the precious moments with their grandchildren that have now become memories.

Karen was remembered as the light of her family.

David was remembered as a devoted father and grandfather whose smile could brighten anyone’s day.

Their families are now left with the photographs, memories and words of love that will keep their presence close.

Two lives, one devastating loss — and two families who will miss them beyond words.

Rest in peace, Karen and David. 🕊️