A chef died after the car he was driving left the road and struck a tree near Welshpool, an inquest has concluded.
David Taylor , 53, sustained catastrophic injuries in the crash on the B4385 between Dolarddyn and Castle Caereinion during the night of April 21 and 22, 2025.
An inquest at Pontypridd Coroner's Court heard that Mr Taylor had been driving a Citroen on the rural road when he appears to have lost control while negotiating a left-hand bend.
According to the coroner's record, the vehicle crossed into the opposing lane before colliding with a tree.
RECOMMENDED READING
-
Blunt injury given as provisional cause in death of man in Welshpool murder case
-
Inquest opens into death of teen on Duke of Edinburgh trip in Powys
-
Family of teen who died at Powys waterfall 'forever grateful' for actions of rescuers
The inquest heard Mr Taylor had consumed alcohol before the crash and was not wearing a seatbelt.
He was found unresponsive at the scene and suffered significant injuries.
Despite resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead on April 22.
Assistant Coroner Kerrie Burge recorded the medical cause of death as traumatic spinal fracture and aortic rupture.
The inquest, which was opened on May 2, 2025, and concluded on June 29, 2026, recorded a conclusion of road traffic collision.
Mr Taylor, of Hirrhyd, Berriew, near Welshpool, worked as a chef.
What happens at an inquest and what can the press report?
Reporting on inquests can be one of the most challenging parts of a journalist's job.
While the circumstances surrounding a death can be distressing, there are important public interest reasons why local news organisations attend coroners' courts and report on proceedings.
Inquests help establish who died, and when, where and how they came by their death.
The hearings are generally held in public, meaning journalists are entitled to attend and report what is said in court.
If you would like to know more about the inquest process, what can be reported and why the media covers these hearings, read our guide here .
