A devoted father and serving army corporal stationed at RNAS Yeovilton tragically lost his life in a motorbike accident, an inquest has revealed.
Jack Bray, 31, from Axminster, was commuting to work when his black Suzuki collided with a Range Rover on the A358. Despite efforts by other road users and paramedics to resuscitate him, Cpl Bray died at the scene due to injuries sustained in the collision, the inquest held at County Hall in Exeter confirmed.
His partner paid a heartfelt tribute, expressing the “irreplaceable void” left by his death. Jack was remembered not only as a proud soldier but also as a loving father, son, and brother who cherished every moment with his children.
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The incident occurred at around 8:44 a.m. on June 28, 2023, at the junction of Chard Road and South Common Road. Cpl Bray’s motorbike struck the near side of a Range Rover that was turning across his path. The car’s driver, who had been signaling and made the necessary checks, did not see the motorbike before the collision. Bray was thrown into the air and fell onto the road.
Witnesses stopped to assist and emergency services were called immediately. An ambulance arrived swiftly, but the injuries were fatal.
Investigators examined the scene carefully. CCTV footage from a nearby shop, approximately 400 meters from the crash site, showed Cpl Bray traveling at excessive speeds between 113 and 119 mph. Although the footage did not capture the moment of impact, it was estimated that his speed was significantly reduced at collision time. Both vehicles were found to be mechanically sound, and road conditions were dry.
A police inquiry concluded that the Range Rover’s driver had not made any unsafe maneuvers, while highlighting that Cpl Bray’s high speed contributed significantly to the accident.
Cpl Bray joined the army in 2010 and had recently been deployed in Oman. He lived in Axminster with his partner and two young daughters and worked in the Army Air Corps at RNAS Yeovilton, preparing helicopters for flight.
A passionate and experienced motorcyclist, he was described as confident and safety-conscious, regularly riding his bike to work.
His partner described him as a source of joy and light for everyone around him — humorous, loyal, caring, and courageous. “Jack was everything: my partner, my best friend, the love of my life,” she said. “He was full of life, humor, and determination, making every moment meaningful.”
Coroner Alison Longhorn acknowledged the deep loss felt by Jack’s family and the wider community, expressing condolences at the tragedy’s impact.