Tragic moto rider's death after drinking
A talented moto-cross rider who was killed in a freak accident at a Midland play park was two-and-a-half times the legal drink-drive limit and had taken cocaine, an inquest heard.
Jason Meacham, aged 26, of Larford Walk, Stourport-on-Severn, died in May when he rode into a rope strung between two posts at Barnfield Park. The impact caused him to come off the back of his bike and back-flip through the air.
He died in hospital having suffered massive injuries to his neck, shock and haemorrhage.
Deputy Coroner Marguerite Elcock recorded a verdict of accidental death at Stourport yesterday.
A toxicology report revealed cocaine levels in his blood and urine which were "consistent with recreational use". His blood alcohol level was 203mg, compared with the legal limit for driving of 80mg.
Forensic toxicologist Kerry Taylor also found traces of some legal drugs which are commonly mixed into batches of cocaine.
Ms Taylor concluded that Mr Meacham's ability to ride may have been affected by the cocaine, and said the alcohol was "significant".
Mr Meacham's accident, at 9.20pm on May 29, was witnessed by a number of people, some of whom gave evidence.
Friends Sean Hammond and Jake May both said they had seen Mr Meacham fall off his bike and then get back on just minutes before he rode into the rope line.
Mr Hammond heard the engine rev before he turned and saw Mr Meacham driving it towards the climbing frame. Both witnesses put his speed at close to 40mph and said he appeared not to have seen the rope.
"When I saw him flip backwards off the bike I thought it was some kind of trick," said Mr Hammond.
"But then he hit the ground like a rag doll."
Health and safety officer John Newton, of Wyre Forest Community Housing, said bikes were "not expected" to be on the land.
Mr Meacham's family did not attend the hearing.
