Tragic Crash Claims Life of Army Veteran Darron Coster in North Yorkshire
Army Hero Dies in Fatal Collision
Darron ‘Daz’ Coster, 54, from Clayton-le-Moors, Lancashire, has died following a deadly collision at Wigglesworth, near Skipton on 14 July 2021.
The proud Royal Military Police veteran served 22 years with the Army. Darron was a devoted husband and father who gave a kidney to his brother seven years ago, saving his life.
He was also one of the few brave souls who entered the Manchester Arena immediately after the 2017 bombing, helping those trapped before emergency services arrived. His family called him a “hero” and said, “To us, he was our world and we are devastated by his death.”
Deadly Head-On Collision on Jack Lane
The fatal crash happened at 11.10am when a red Ducati motorcycle collided head-on with an orange Vauxhall Corsa on Jack Lane. The bike was travelling south from Rathmell to Wigglesworth, while the car headed north towards Settle.
The motorcyclist, a man in his 50s from the Blackburn area, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have notified his family but have not formally identified him yet.
Car Occupants Injured and Road Shut for Hours
- The driver, a woman in her 60s from Ribble Valley, suffered shock.
- A female passenger, in her 80s, was treated in hospital for a leg injury believed to be non-life-threatening.
Emergency services, including an air ambulance, attended the scene. The road between Long Preston train station and the A65 turning to Rathmell was closed until nearly 11pm for investigation and vehicle recovery.
Police Launch Witness Appeal
North Yorkshire Police have launched an urgent appeal for witnesses. Anyone who saw the crash or either vehicle before the collision is urged to come forward.
Contact Emma Drummond at North Yorkshire Police on 101, option 2, quoting reference 12210159925. Dash cam footage or other recordings may prove crucial and should be preserved for police review.
