Seven-year-old boy died after being crushed between two cars as he changed his shoes after a rugby match
- Alfie Tollett was standing behind the family’s vehicle when the parked car hit him
A seven-year-old boy has died after being crushed between two cars as he was changing his rugby boots in a parking lot, an inquest found today.
Alfie Tollett was standing behind his family’s vehicle when a parked car hit him after being “shunned” by another car struggling to fit into a space.
The youngster, who had watched his brother play at Plymstock Albion Oaks rugby club in Plymouth on February 19, was taken to hospital where he later died.
A 55-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving has been released on bail until May.
Alfie Tollett was behind his family’s car when a parked car was ‘shunted’ into his back after being hit by another car struggling to park
At the start of his inquest today, a statement was read on behalf of coroner Ian Arrow.
It read: ‘(Alfie) stood at the back of the family car and swapped his boots for his shoes after watching his brother play rugby.
“A stationary vehicle parked behind the family vehicle was then hit by another electric-powered vehicle attempting to park; this vehicle shunted the parked vehicle forward and crushed Alfie between the two vehicles.
“Alfie was taken to Derriford Hospital but sadly passed away.”
His official cause of death was given as traumatic blunt force chest injuries at the brief hearing.
Police continue to testify and recall any dashcam footage of the tragedy.
Tributes have poured in for Alfie, who lived in Plymouth.
In a statement released just days after his death, his family said: ‘This has to be one of the hardest things we’ve had to do as a family.
“On Sunday, our precious little Alfie was involved in a terrible incident where he sadly lost his life.
“This has left a huge hole in our entire family. Our Alfie was not only our son and brother, but also a grandson, a cousin, a nephew and a friend to so many people.
“He was our special cheeky, funny and precious little man. Our hearts are completely broken. We are so numb and struggling to understand why this happened.
“We would like to thank you for the kind messages of support we have received.
‘To our Alfie moos, we miss you sweetheart and we will never forget you. Fly high our baby.
Thank you for the best seven years of our lives. All our love Mum, Dad, Jack and Teddy. X’
Plymstock Oaks RFC, of which Alfie was a member, said on Facebook in tribute: ‘It is with deep shock and sadness that we must inform you of the tragic loss of a young life of one of us today.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and their friends at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.”
Devon and Cornwall Police said: ‘Officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision, which took place at Wembury Road, near the Plymstock Albion Oaks Rugby Club at around 11.10am.
A 55-year-old man from Plymouth has been arrested on suspicion of death from careless driving. He has been released on bail to return on Saturday, May 20.
“If you witnessed the incident or have any information or dashcam footage that may assist with questions, please contact police by calling 101 with reference number 50230040392.”
