Investigation launched into death of driver and two pedestrians killed in accident

The driver of the car that collided with pedestrians Stephen and Katherine Burch in Beaumaris, Anglesey, was identified during the trial on Wednesday as Humphrey Pickering, 81, of Colwyn Bay, Conwy.

The hearing in Caernarfon, which lasted just a few minutes, was told that Mr and Mrs Burch, a vicar and a charity worker, both retired, were pronounced dead by paramedics at the scene of the collision in Alma Street at 2.45pm on Wednesday 28 August.

Senior Coroner for North West Wales, Kate Robertson, said: “A motor vehicle driven by Humphrey Pickering along Alma Street, Beaumaris, collided with two pedestrians, Katherine Burch and Stephen Burch, and then with a building. All died at the scene.”

The provisional causes of death for Mr and Mrs Burch, of Alcester, Warwickshire, were given as multiple injuries.

The provisional cause of death for Mr Pickering, who was pronounced dead by a paramedic, was chest injuries.

Ms Robertson said: “Investigations into the collision which sadly claimed the lives of these people are ongoing.

“This inquiry is therefore adjourned to allow the ongoing investigation to continue.

“I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere condolences to the families and friends of the victims and also to acknowledge the considerable efforts of the local citizens and emergency services.”

Following the deaths, the Diocese of Coventry released a eulogy which said: “This comes as a shock to the diocese as many will know Steve, who only retired at the end of last year after serving us in many roles for over 35 years, most recently as Vicar of St James, Fletchamstead for 19 years.

“Steve was a beloved member of our diocese and was known for his good humor and unwavering faith. Many also know Kathy well through her work with CPAS (Church Pastoral Aid Society) and her church service.

“As a married couple, they were very active in their retirement this year and ran an Alpha course that leads to baptism and confirmation.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve and Kathy's family during this time, especially their children David, Jonathan and Sarah, as they cope with this devastating, unexpected loss.”

A witness told the PA news agency she was in a hotel overlooking the accident scene when she heard a “loud bang” and then saw “people trying very hard to perform CPR”.

She said: “The city is absolutely full of tourists and people walk down this street. It's just a beautiful place.”