Former Aviva chief executive David Barral has died in a ‘fireball’ crash after his Aston Martin car veered off the road and collided with a tree near Wetherby in West Yorkshire.
His family have now paid tribute to the 63-year-old businessman following his death on the A58 Leeds Road between Bardsey and Collingham, as police investigate the incident and appeal for witnesses to come forward.
Mr Barral was driving a grey Aston Martin DBX SUV when the crash happened shortly after 2pm on Tuesday, with West Yorkshire Police confirming they were called to the scene at 2:05pm where the luxury vehicle had left the carriageway.
Family’s Devastating Loss
In a heartfelt statement released through police, Mr Barral’s family expressed their grief: “We are all absolutely devastated at the loss of the most wonderful man.
“Rest in peace David we will all miss you so, so much and you will always fill our hearts. We love you.”
The family released a photograph of Mr Barral alongside their tribute, as they come to terms with the sudden loss of the respected businessman who had touched many lives throughout his distinguished career.
Distinguished Insurance Industry Career
Mr Barral had leadership roles at Aviva Life and Pensions between 1999 and 2015, and was made UK and Ireland CEO in 2011, overseeing the insurance giant’s largest business unit during a crucial period for the company.
The businessman’s 30-year career included non-executive chairman roles at Virgin Wines and investment platform Embark Group, as well as being a senior independent director at insurance firm LV=. He was most recently a strategic adviser at investment group Harwood Capital.
His extensive experience in financial services saw him hold numerous prestigious positions, including chairman of the Association of British Insurers’ retirement and savings committee and independent customer champion at Old Mutual Wealth’s Customer Outcomes Forum.
From Door-to-Door Salesman to CEO
In previous interviews, Mr Barral told of his career in the insurance industry – including as a door-to-door salesman with Abbey Life when he was just 18 years old.
He said: “Abbey was a really tough job, I was only 18 and I was probably too young to sustain it.”
“I did get my wife’s engagement ring with my third month’s salary, though.”
He went on to work for Guardian Royal Exchange as a claim negotiator then ran brokers Andrew Yule Insurance for three years where he walked the streets at lunchtime looking for trade, demonstrating the determination that would later propel him to the top of the insurance industry.
Life Ambitions and Personal Interests
Mr Barral said previously that his life ambition was “to be the best that I can and see my children healthy, happy and debt-free. I would also like to catch a Marlin and ride a Harley”.
These personal revelations painted a picture of a man who, despite his corporate success, maintained grounded ambitions focused on family and personal fulfilment.
Father of three Mr Barral, who was born in East Kilbride, in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, lived with his family in a detached four-bed home in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, where he had settled after years of professional success.
Tributes Pour In
Comments posted on Facebook following news of his death have included “Rest in peace, a lovely man. Sending love to his family”.
Another poster wrote: “Sincere condolences to all his family. I met David a number of times when working for a supplier to Aviva. He was always welcoming and giving of his time.”
The tributes highlighted Mr Barral’s reputation not just as a successful businessman, but as someone who took time to connect with people at all levels of the industry.
Former colleagues and business associates have remembered him as a transformational leader who brought strategic vision and operational excellence to every role he undertook.
Industry Leadership and Legacy
During his tenure at Aviva, Mr Barral oversaw significant changes in the UK life insurance market, leading the company through regulatory reforms and market challenges. He was instrumental in modernising Aviva’s approach to customer service and distribution channels.
His work extended beyond corporate leadership. Mr Barral was a regular contributor to Speakers for Schools, an independent education charity, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community and inspiring the next generation.
At Virgin Wines, where he served as non-executive chairman, he helped guide the company through a period of growth and digital transformation. His role at Embark Group saw him provide strategic oversight during a crucial expansion phase for the investment platform provider.
Police Investigation Continues
Officers from West Yorkshire Police’s Major Collision Enquiry Team are appealing for anyone who saw Tuesday’s collision or the car’s movements in the time leading up to it to please contact them.
A police spokesperson said they are particularly interested in hearing from anyone with relevant dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage that might help establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The A58 Leeds Road where the incident occurred is a major route connecting Leeds with Wetherby, and police believe there may have been other motorists in the area who witnessed the grey Aston Martin DBX SUV before the collision.
Remembering a Business Leader
Mr Barral’s career trajectory from an 18-year-old door-to-door salesman to leading one of the UK’s largest insurance companies epitomised the possibilities of dedication and hard work in British business.
His influence extended across multiple sectors of the financial services industry, from traditional insurance to modern investment platforms, always bringing a focus on customer outcomes and sustainable growth.
Industry figures have noted his particular skill in bridging the gap between traditional insurance practices and modern digital approaches, helping established companies adapt to changing market conditions.
Witnesses are urged to contact the force online or by calling 101, quoting reference 13250591258.
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