A 40-year-old father from Todmorden died after falling from the back of a moving van during an argument with his partner, an inquest has heard.
David Rhodes fell from the rear doors of the Peugeot Bipper van as it was travelling along Carr Lane in Kirkham, Lancashire, close to the junction with Dowbridge, at around 11pm on October 11 last year. He was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital, where he died the following day. The cause of death was recorded as a blunt force head injury.
Family tribute
After his death, his family paid tribute to the builder, describing him as a man with a “heart of pure gold”. Their tribute said: “David was a doting dad to his beautiful seven-year-old-year old girl, a protective big brother and a much-loved son.”
“He was Todmorden’s best builder as he would always say! People who knew David would agree he was a ball of energy, a cheeky character with an infectious smile, and a heart of pure gold. All our lives will be a much quieter and duller place without him. We love you, forever and always.”
Coroner's conclusion
An inquest was held at Blackpool Town Hall on August 10, where Assistant Coroner Patrick Cassidy returned a conclusion of misadventure. Misadventure is defined as a death occurring as an unintended consequence of an intended act.
The coroner concluded: “On the 11th October 2025 on Carr Lane, Lancashire, Mr David Rhodes sustained a fatal head injury when he exited the rear doors of a moving Peugeot Bipper Van whilst under the influence of significant alcohol and following a prolonged domestic argument with his partner who was the driver of the vehicle at the time of his exit. He was subsequently taken to the Royal Preston Hospital where he was pronounced deceased on the 12/10/25.”
