Charity Volunteer Killed in Tragic Collision While Transporting Blood

An inquest has been opened into the death of Timothy Joseph Minett, a 78-year-old volunteer who tragically lost his life in a collision while transporting blood for a charity. The incident occurred on the A478 in Pembrokeshire, Wales, on July 2, 2025, when Mr. Minett was riding a motorcycle for Blood Bikes Wales, a charity dedicated to supporting the NHS by delivering blood donations.

At approximately 18:20 local time, Mr. Minett was involved in a crash with a Volkswagen van near Crymych. Despite the prompt response of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene, with the official time of death recorded at 19:29. The assistant coroner, Paul Bennett, opened the inquest on Monday morning at Pembrokeshire County Hall in Haverfordwest.

During the hearing, PC Carrie Sheridan, the coroner’s officer for Pembrokeshire, provided details about the incident. She stated, “At 18:23 on July 2, emergency services attended a report of a traffic collision on the A478 near Crymych. Mr. Minett’s vehicle was in collision with a Volkswagen van. A post-mortem examination was conducted at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, but the results are still pending.”

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing. Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that a 56-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving in connection with the incident.

Mr. Minett was described by his family as a “devoted husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.” Known as Tim to his loved ones, he was committed to his volunteer work with Blood Bikes Wales at the time of the collision. The police released a statement expressing condolences to his family and noting their deep sadness over the loss of such a cherished individual.

In light of the ongoing investigation, authorities are seeking information from the public. They are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who was driving on the A478 between Glandy Cross and Blaenffos around the time of the incident, especially if they have dashcam footage that could assist in their inquiries.

Assistant coroner Paul Bennett has adjourned the inquest until November 27, providing the family and community an opportunity to grieve the sudden loss of a dedicated volunteer and a beloved individual.