Alfie Tollett: Seven-year-old was changing boots after football game when he was crushed between two cars
PLYMOUTH, ENGLAND: Alfie Tollett, the seven-year-old boy who died after being crushed between two cars in February, was reportedly changing out of his football shoes at a parking lot when tragedy befell. An inquest heard how the youngster was standing behind his family's vehicle when a parked car rammed into him after being "shunted" by another car that was struggling to fit into a parking space.
Tollett died shortly after watching his brother play at Plymstock Albion Oaks Rugby club in Plymouth on February 19. A 55-year-old man, whose identity has not been revealed, was taken into custody on suspicion of dangerous driving. However, he has been released on bail until May.
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Crushed between two vehicles
A statement was read out in court on behalf of coroner Ian Arrow at the start of the inquest on Monday, March 6. "(Alfie) was stood at the rear of the family car changing his boots for his shoes after watching his brother play rugby," it read, adding, "A stationary vehicle parked behind the family vehicle was then struck by another electrically propelled vehicle that was attempting to park; this vehicle has shunted forward the parked vehicle and crushed Alfie between the two vehicles. Alfie was conveyed to Derriford Hospital, but sadly passed away." The coroner determined his official cause of death as blunt force traumatic chest injuries. Meanwhile, authorities have continued to appeal for witnesses or any dashcam footage of the tragedy.
'Precious little man'
Tributes poured in swiftly for Tollett, who hailed from Plymouth. "This has to be one of the hardest things we have had to do as a family," his loved ones said in a statement released days after his death. The statement added, "On Sunday, our precious little Alfie was involved in a horrible incident where sadly he lost his life. This has left a massive hole in our whole family. Our Alfie was not just our son and brother, but also a grandson, a cousin, a nephew, and a friend to so many people."
The statement continued, "He was our special cheeky, funny, and precious little man. Our hearts are completely broken. We are so numb and are struggling to understand why this has happened. We would like to thank you for the kind words of support we have received," adding, "To our Alfie moos, we miss you sweetheart and we will never ever forget you. Fly high our baby. Thank you for the best seven years of our lives. All our love Mummy, Daddy, Jack, and Teddy. X"
Plymstock Oaks RFC, where young Tollett was a member, also paid tribute. "It is with deep shock and sadness that we regret to inform you of the tragic loss of a young life of one of our own today," the club said in a statement, adding, "Our deepest condolences go out to the family and their friends during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all."
Devon and Cornwall Police revealed, "Officers continue to make inquiries to establish the circumstances of the collision, which happened at around 11.10 am on Wembury Road, near the Plymstock Albion Oaks Rugby Club. A 55-year-old man from Plymouth was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He has been released on police bail to return on Saturday 20 May."
If you or anyone you know witnessed the incident or have information regarding the same, you are urged to contact the authorities by dialing 101 and quoting reference number 50230040392.