Mason Portman

I am M D FLEMING, HM Senior Coroner for the coroner area of West Yorkshire Western Coroner Area

On 22 December 2023 I commenced an investigation into the death of Mason John PORTMAN aged 21. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 13 August 2024. The conclusion of the inquest was that: I found that the cause of death to be: – 1a. Multiple injuries I arrived at a conclusion of road traffic collision

At approximately 6.10am on 17/12/23, Mason John Portman, who was driver and sole occupant, lost control of his motor vehicle as he exited the slip road at junction 22 on the east bound carriageway to the M62, and collided with a wooden fence and road sign, prior to travelling across the moorland and towards the A672,where it collided with an unoccupied motor vehicle parked on the layby, before then tumbling across the A672 where it came to rest, causing him to sustain fatal injuries.  At post-mortem he was found to have taken cocaine (less than 0.10mg/L) and his blood alcohol was 211 mg/dL.

During the course of the investigation my inquiries revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken.  In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows: (brief summary of matters of concern) During the inquest I heard that as Mason approached the location of the collision via the slip road that there were no road markings or signs displayed to advise on appropriate speed or road curvature ahead. The MATTER OF CONCERN is as follows.  – To review the safety of the road conditions at this location and to consider the merits of the placement of appropriate road markings and signage.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you (and/or your organisation) have the power to take such action.