David Barral, 63, the former boss of Aviva, has died in a car crash in West Yorkshire. His family described him as “the most wonderful man”.
West Yorkshire Police reported Mr Barral was driving a grey Aston Martin DBX SUV which crashed into a tree on the A58 Leeds Road, between Bardsey and Collingham, just after 2 pm on Tuesday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mr Barral led Aviva as chief executive from 2011 to 2015. His loved ones added a heartfelt tribute: “you will always fill our hearts”.
In a statement, they said: “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.”
An Aviva spokesperson said: “We are very sad to hear of the death of David Barral, a much-valued former colleague and leader at Aviva.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers go to David’s family at this time.”
Officers from West Yorkshire Police’s major collision inquiry team are appealing for anyone who saw the collision or the car in the time leading up to the incident to contact them.
They would particularly like to hear from anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Yorkshire Police online at westyorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat or by calling 101 quoting reference 13250591258.
