Inquest told New Year's Day crash victim was 'short distance from home'
A motorist was just a "short distance from home" when he fatally crashed into a tree minutes into New Year's Day, an inquest heard.
Jon Paul Breakwell, aged 37, was the sole occupant in his silver BMW 3-Series when it crashed, in Pinfold Lane, Aldridge, at around 12.20am.
Black Country Coroner's Court was told Mr Breakwell, who was pronounced dead at the scene, died from a fatal head injury.
The inquest has been adjourned while West Midlands Police and the coroners's office gather more evidence, including toxicology reports, into the case.
It is believed no other vehicles were involved in the crash and there are no witnesses to help investigators.
Mr Breakwell, who was born in Sutton Coldfield, also lived on Pinfold Lane.
Area coroner Joanne Lees told the court: "For reasons that to be concluded Mr Breakwell was involved in a crash a short distance from his home."
His cause of death was given as fatal head injuries due to a road traffic accident.
Toxicology tests will be carried out, the inquest heard.
Mr Breakwell, a quantity surveyor, was described as a “hugely popular” man in the wake of his death.
In a statement, his family said: "We are all devastated and shocked by this tragic incident.
"Jon Paul was fun loving, hugely popular and larger than life. He will be sadly missed."
The inquest has been adjourned until March 4.
West Midlands Police is still appealing for information into the crash.
Anyone that can help should call West Midlands Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, quoting incident reference number 108 of January 1.
Alternatively, witnesses can email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on fl_collision_invest@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk.
