Coroner to examine death of Lytham crash victim Thomas Pritchard killed in Ballam Road horror smash
The coroner is set to examine the circumstances which led to the death of a popular 29-year-old who died at the scene of a crash in Lytham.
Thomas Pritchard, from Thornton, was killed when his Mini John Cooper Works car crashed into a tree in Ballam Road at around 10pm on Wednesday, April 23.
Thomas was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle when it veered off Ballam Road and struck a tree before catching fire.
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The driver of a second vehicle, a black Seat Ibiza, a 19-year-old man from St Annes, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Lancashire Police are investing the circumstance of the fatal crash.
Blackpool coroner Alan Wilson will hold a pre-inquest review to check if all evidence is available so can examine the circumstances surrounding the NHS worker’s death during an inquest.
The pre inquest review will be held at Blackpool Town Hall on October 31.
Paying tribute shortly after his death, his family said: “Tom was a helpful young man, with a high emotional intelligence who had his whole life ahead of him. Tom worked within NHS admin and was proud to be working in that role.
“He loved life and was on the verge of moving in with his long-time partner, a change he was really looking forward to making.
“He loved to go on long cycle rides and would drive any distance just for pleasure or to help a friend in need of assistance.
“He was caring and kind and made everyone feel important. He will be missed by us all.”
Tom, who was a big fan of Minis, would have turned 30 on May 12 and the local Mini community paid a fitting tribute to their friend with a special ‘Mini-Meet’.
Sgt Laura Kendall of our Serious Collision Investigation Unit said shortly after the collision: “Our thoughts remain with Tom’s loved ones at this incredibly distressing time.
“We’re continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are appealing for information or footage that could assist our enquiries.
“If you saw the vehicles in the moments before the collision, or have dashcam footage of Ballam Road, please do the responsible thing and get in touch.”
If you can help, call Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log 1582 of April 23.
You can also email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on [email protected]