The former chief executive of Aviva has been killed after his supercar SUV veered off the road and smashed into a tree.
David Barral, 60, was driving an Aston Martin DBX when it crashed near his Yorkshire home on Tuesday afternoon.
He was on the A58 between Bardsey and Collingham, near Wetherby, just after 2pm when the accident occurred.
In a statement, Mr Barral’s 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.”
Ex-Aviva CEO David Barral Killed in Leeds Aston Martin DBX SUV Fireball Crash
— Yapp (@YappAppLtd) October 16, 2025
David Barral, 60, former chief executive of Aviva Group Ireland Ltd, died in a tragic car accident on 13 October.
The crash happened in Leeds, UK, where Barral lived and was a respected community… pic.twitter.com/V84cBfQ5Fz
Having started his career with defunct firm Commercial Union, Mr Barral worked for life insurers Abbey Life before his 15-year stint at Aviva where he was CEO between 2011 and 2015.
His 30-year career included roles at online retailer Virgin Wines, LSL property services and insurance company Liverpool Victoria.
The father-of-three was most recently a strategic adviser at London-based financial institution Harwood Capital.
Mr Barral previously said that his life goals were “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”.
Born in East Kilbride in Scotland, Mr Barral lived with his family in a detached four-bed home in Harrogate.
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.”
West Yorkshire Police are appealing for anyone who saw the collision to contact them, particularly those with CCTV or dashcam footage.
Witnesses are urged to contact the force online or by calling 101, quoting reference 13250591258.
