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A former Aviva boss’s family have paid tribute after he was killed in a crash in West Yorkshire.
David Barral, 63, died on Tuesday after his Aston Martin DBX SUV veered off the road and crashed into a tree with catastrophic consequences.
The impact of the crash caused the car to go up in flames, completely destroying the vehicle and trapping Barral inside.
The businessman was pronounced dead at the scene.
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Crash investigators have appealed for any eyewitnesses to come forward who might have spotted the car before the collision, which happened at about 2.05pm along the A58 Leeds Road between Bardsey and Collingham.
Barral’s family have now paid tribute to their loved one.
They said in a statement: ‘We are all absolutely devastated at the loss of the most wonderful man.
‘Rest in peace David we will all miss you so, so much and you will always fill our hearts.
‘We love you.’
The 63-year-old had a long career with Aviva Life and Pensions, where he worked in various senior roles between 1999 and 2015.
He was made the insurance giant’s UK and Ireland CEO in 2011.
Barral was a strategic adviser with investment group Harwood Capital at the time of his death.
Born in East Kilbride, Scotland, Barral lived with his family in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
He had previously talked about how he got his start in the industry, saying he was door-to-door salesman with Abbey Life at just 18.
He said it was ‘a really tough job,’ but it helped him to ‘get my wife’s engagement ring with my third month’s salary.’
People reacted to the news of his sudden death on social media.
A former Aviva colleague said: ‘RIP David, whenever our paths crossed at Aviva he was always so lovely. Sending my heartfelt condolences with Angie and his family.’
One person said: ‘This is very sad news, David was a customer of mine and lovely man. Rip mate, my thoughts are with your family and friends.’
Another one said: ‘Very sad. I was on my way to Collingham and was turned around by the Police, now I know why. So very sorry, such sad news.’
West Yorkshire Police said: ‘David Barral, 63, was driving a grey Aston Martin DBX SUV which was in collision with a tree on the A58 Leeds Road between Bardsey and Collingham at 2.05pm on Tuesday (14 October).
‘Officers from the Major Collision Enquiry Team are appealing for anyone who saw the collision or the car’s movements in the time leading up to it to please contact them.
‘They would particularly like to hear from anyone with relevant dashcam or CCTV footage.’
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