Tributes have been pouring in for Benjamin “Ben” Rafton, a beloved soldier from Plymouth who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Torquay on Sunday. Ben, 24, served in the Royal Artillery regiment and was known for his cheeky smile and infectious sense of humor.
According to the OnlyForces Facebook page, the local community and Ben’s family have expressed deep sorrow at his sudden passing. One heartfelt comment reads, “Stand down young man, your duty is done. Thank you for your service. RIP.”
Ben’s mother, Somaya, shared a touching tribute expressing the family’s profound loss: “Somaya has lost her beautiful, precious son Benjamin Rafton to a horrific motorcycle incident. Jake, Harry, and Tom have lost their little brother. Their wives have lost a brother-in-law, and their children have lost an uncle. Ben was a much-loved son, brother, uncle, nephew, grandson, and cousin. He was a lad with a cheeky smile who loved to make people laugh.”
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Ben’s uncle Sean added, “With a heavy heart, I am so sad to lose my nephew Ben Rafton, taken too soon in a traffic accident in Torquay. So gutted, RIP legend.” He described Ben as a larger-than-life character whose family, including his father Barrie and stepmother Julie, are heartbroken.
The crash occurred at approximately 5:05 pm on August 31 on Torwood Street in Torquay and involved three vehicles: a black Audi Q5, a grey Ford Ranger, and Ben’s blue Suzuki SV 650 motorcycle. Devon and Cornwall Police reported that a man in his 20s from Hampshire was fatally injured. The Audi driver, a man in his 20s from Plymouth, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but has since been released under investigation.
Lads Advice, a social group close to Ben, shared their sorrow, saying, “Ben was an absolute character who lit up every room with his cheeky humor and caring personality. We remember his kindness—like completing a charity tab and anonymously buying burgers for those in need. The world is truly worse off without him.”
Ben was also an active sportsman before joining the Army, having played for Plymouth Basketball Club (PBC). The club expressed their sympathy: “All at PBC are saddened to hear the news of Ben Rafton’s passing after a tragic accident. Ben represented the club with pride before joining the Army, and his family has been part of the Plymouth basketball community for many years. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”
Both Devon and Cornwall Police and the British Army have been contacted for further comments regarding the incident.