William David Harvey Found Dead Hours Before Scheduled Questioning
A van driver linked to a tragic fatal crash on the busy M25 took his own life just hours before he was due to be interviewed by police over the incident.
Grim Collision on M25 Junction 4
Grandfather Anthony Laskier was riding his BMW motorbike on December 17 near Junction 4 of the M25, close to Orpington, when a white Ford Transit van crashed into him from behind at around 4.35 pm. Mr Laskier suffered fatal neck and chest injuries and died on the spot.
The driver of the van, William David Harvey, was later found dead from self-inflicted gunshot wounds on January 20 in his garage at his home in Southfleet Road, Bean, near Dartford.
Police Interview Avoided by Tragic End
Mr Harvey was due to speak to the police at 3pm on the day he died to answer questions about the crash. The court heard he spent the evening before talking to his solicitor and went to bed at 11pm with his wife. Although he got up multiple times during the night – which was considered normal – his wife grew worried when she found him missing from bed and his car outside instead of the garage.
Upon checking, she discovered Mr Harvey on the garage floor, where he was pronounced dead.
Struggles After Crash Led to Tragic Decision
Coroner Katrina Hepburn said: “He had been struggling as a result of the crash. Although there was no suggestion he had made any threats to harm himself over the last month, it had been a difficult time for William.”
The cause of death was recorded as fatal, self-inflicted gunshot injuries. A full inquest is scheduled for June 12.
Family Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Victim Anthony Laskier
Anthony Laskier’s wife, Debbie, commemorated her late husband as a “beautiful soul”. She said: “Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved Anthony. He was a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend whose kindness and laughter touched everyone who knew him.”
She added: “Taken from us far too soon in a road traffic collision, his absence leaves an unimaginable void in our lives. We ask for privacy as we grieve and remember the beautiful soul who brought so much love and joy to our world. Forever in our hearts.”
