NewsUK NewsTributesDavid Rhodes fell from the back of the Peugeot Bipper van as it was heading along a road in Kirkham, Lancashire - now a coroner has returned a conclusion of misadventure12:02, 15 Aug 2026A "doting" dad has tragically died after "exiting the rear doors" of a van during a row with his partner.‌David Rhodes, from Todmorden, fell from the back of the Peugeot Bipper van as it was travelling along Carr Lane in Kirkham, Lancashire, close to the junction with Dowbridge, at around 11pm on October 11 last year.‌The 40-year-old was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital where he died the following day and the cause of his death was recorded as a blunt force head injury, an inquest heard.‌After David's death his family paid tribute to the builder who had a "heart of pure gold" and they said that their lives "will be a much quieter and duller place without him".The tribute read: “David was a doting dad to his beautiful seven-year-old-year old girl, a protective big brother and a much-loved son.‌“He was Todmorden’s best builder as he would always say! People who knew David would agree he was a ball of energy, a cheeky character with an infectious smile, and a heart of pure gold.“All our lives will be a much quieter and duller place without him. We love you, forever and always. David tragically and suddenly lost his life on the 12th of October, in a road traffic accident in Carr Lane, Kirkham.“Our hearts are breaking, we don't understand how this has happened, if anyone has any information or saw anything, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the police.”Article continues belowAn inquest into David's death was held at Blackpool Town Hall on August 10 where Assistant Coroner Patrick Cassidy returned a conclusion of misadventure, reported LancashireLive. Misadventure is when a death occurs as an unintended consequence of an intended act.The coroner concluded said: "On the 11th October 2025 on Carr Lane, Lancashire, Mr David Rhodes sustained a fatal head injury when he exited the the rear doors of a moving Peugeot Bipper Van whilst under the influence of significant alcohol and following a prolonged domestic argument with his partner who was the driver of the vehicle at the time of his exit."He was subsequently taken to the Royal Preston Hospital where he was pronounced deceased on the 12/10/25."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌InquestsTributes