Man killed in five-vehicle crash on A5 was rear-seat passenger, inquest hears

The crash took place on the westbound carriageway, travelling from Telford towards Shrewsbury, at around 7am last Monday (January 13).

Police said four cars and a lorry were involved, and one man died as a result of his injuries despite the efforts of the emergency services.

At a hearing on Tuesday (January 21), Shropshire's assistant coroner Heath Westerman heard evidence relating to the crash.

He said that the victim was 32-year-old Andrew Robert Eaton, from Nottingham.

Mr Westerman heard Mr Eaton had been the rear passenger in a Mercedes A-Class car when the crash occurred.

The hearing was told that efforts were made to save Mr Eaton as the scene, but he died at 7.55am.

A statement recorded at the opening of Mr Eaton's inquest said: "On Monday, January 13, 2025, Mr Eaton was sat in the rear passenger seat of a Mercedes A-Class car travelling westbound on the A5 between Telford and Shrewsbury when a collision occurred with another vehicle.

"The emergency services attended the scene and despite the best efforts from Shropshire fire and rescue, paramedics and the HEMS crew Mr Eaton’s life was declared extinct at the scene at 07.55 hours.

"Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding his death."

A 66-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving in the aftermath of the crash has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Three other people were injured in the crash, two seriously, with all being taken to hospital for treatment.

The inquest was adjourned for a further hearing on May 15.