British Millionaire and former Aviva CEO David Barral is k!lled in ‘fireball’ crash after his Aston Martin car veered off the road and collided with a tree

British millionaire and former Aviva boss David Barral has d!ed in a ‘fireball’ crash after his Aston Martin car veered off the road and collided with a tree. 

The 63-year-old businessman died on Tuesday, October 8, near Wetherby in West Yorkshire.

Police are investigating the incident and have appealed for any witnesses to come forward with information.

Mr Barral was driving a grey Aston Martin DBX SUV when the crash happened on the A58 Leeds Road between Bardsey and Collingham shortly after 2pm on Tuesday.

In a statement, his family said: ‘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.’

Mr Barral had leadership roles at Aviva Life and Pensions between 1999 and 2015, and was made UK and Ireland CEO in 2011. 

A spokesman for Aviva said: ‘We are devastated by the loss of David. His contributions to the company and the broader business world were immeasurable. Our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.’

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. 

In previous interviews, he told of his career in the insurance industry – including as a door-to-door salesman with Abbey Life.

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.