Inquest opened after young man dies in Chesterfield crash

Leo Benford died following the incident on the A619 Baslow Road, just outside Brampton, on the evening of August 1.

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The 27-year-old’s inquest was opened at Chesterfield Coroner’s Court on Monday afternoon.

Matthew Kewley, assistant coroner, told the hearing: “The circumstances are that Mr Benford was a pedestrian when he was struck by a vehicle travelling on the A619.

“There will be a police investigation into the circumstances of his death.

“I’m not in a position today to confirm when that will be complete or when the full inquest will take place.”

Mr Kewley said the provisional cause of Mr Benford’s death had been given as ‘head injury’.

“There are further tests to be carried out,” he added.

The court heard Mr Benford, of Meynell Close, Chesterfield, was single and unemployed when he died.

Adjourning the inquest, Mr Kewley said: “I extend my condolences to all of Mr Benford’s family and friends.”

Following the collision, a police spokesperson said: "A 32-year-old man, also from Chesterfield, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released under investigation.

"Officers are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident and may have seen a man walking along the road before 10pm.

“Of particular interest is anyone who may have dash cam footage or CCTV that may be of use to the investigation.”

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