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Accidental death verdict after van crash

Thu, 14 May 2015

The inquest into the death of a 22-year-old who overtook his brother on the Mountain Road before crashing has recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Ballasalla man Ben Collister died of massive blunt force trauma near to the Black Hut on the morning of December 19th last year.

At Douglas Courthouse yesterday the coroner heard he'd made an "error of judgement" in his Citroen Berlingo van, whilst trying to overtake his brother on his way to work - both were unaware they were travelling in tandem.

The apprentice joiner crashed head-on into a Ford Transit van.

Following the crash witnesses said Jason Collister tended to the driver of the other vehicle before realising his sibling's van was also involved.

Despite the efforts of paramedics Ben was declared dead at Noble's Hospital.

Described as being in a fit state to drive, with road conditions and visibility 'good', everyone involved was found to be driving responsibly before the crash.

Ben's family were in court to hear the verdict - they thanked emergency services and apologised to the driver of the other vehicle on Ben's behalf.

His mother said: "He'll be in our hearts forever and we'll miss him everyday."

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