West Yorkshire Police is investigating the fatal crash that happened just after 2pm on Tuesday between York and Leeds.

David Barral, 63, was driving a grey Aston Martin DBX SUV, which collided with a tree and left the trunk snapped in half.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family has paid tribute to Mr Barral, who was a former CEO at Aviva.

David Barral was a former CEO at Aviva(Image: West Yorkshire Police)

“We are all absolutely devastated at the loss of the most wonderful man,” they said.

“Rest in peace, David.

“We will all miss you so, so much and you will always fill our hearts. We love you.”

Mr Barral was a father of three who was born in East Kilbride in Scotland and lived with his family in Harrogate.

The businessman’s 30-year career included roles at Virgin Wines and investment platform Embark Group, as well as being a senior independent director at insurance firm LV=. 

Between 1999 and 2015, Mr Barral worked for Aviva and was made CEO for UK & Ireland Life in 2011.

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It is understood that he worked in Norwich and frequently visited the city in his senior role.

He was most recently a strategic adviser at Harwood Capital, an investment group based in London.

People have posted tributes to Mr Barral on the West Yorkshire Police Facebook, with one commenter posting: “RIP David, whenever our paths crossed at Aviva he was always so lovely.”

Officers from the force’s Major Collision Enquiry Team are appealing for anyone who saw the crash or the car’s movements in the time leading up to it to please contact them.  

They would particularly like to hear from anyone with relevant dashcam or CCTV footage.