TRIBUTES have been paid to a man who was killed in a horror van crash in Shepley – just five months after his sister died from pneumonia.
Ben Cooper, 25, of Emley , was driving a Ford Transit van on Lane Head Road, when it veered into a wall and landed in a field.
He died at the scene following the crash at 11.20pm on Sunday.
Two passengers in the van suffered serious leg injuries and were cut free by firefighters.
Ben’s death comes just five months after his mum Julie Cooper and partner Mark Howarth lost daughter Jessica, 12.
Ben is survived by his sisters Emma Cooper, 23, and Jessica’s twin Josie Howarth, 12.
Ben, a former Shelley College pupil, was described by pals on social media as “one of the best” yesterday as news of the tragedy spread.
Floral tributes from many people have been placed at the crash scene.
The passengers, both in their 20s, suffered leg and ankle injuries respectively and were cut from the wreckage.
Friend Steven Beaumont posted a picture with Ben. He said: “Love you Ben you’ve left us too early ...... Absolutely gutted.”
Jordan Tindle said: “Just gutted. lost one of my oldest mates. Can’t even begin to explain how many good times I had with the guy.”
Liam Berry posted on Facebook: “A lad with his life ahead of him gone! Not just that a top lad! One of the Best! RIP Ben Cooper u will be sadly missed! Had some great giggles down the years which won’t be forgot! Sleep well and see u some other day fella”
Liam Clough tweeted on Ben’s sister’s twitter account: “Emma words can’t describe how sorry I am for you and your family, Ben was the best guy I knew. So sad! Thinking of you all X
He later posted: “Devastated is an understatement. In life you really don’t know what’s around the corner. Can’t change anything now. Ben you will be missed!x”
Robert Barnes @digger_bar tweeted: Devastating news about Ben. My heart goes out to U and your family. #truelytragic. #RIP
West Yorkshire Police are still appealing for witnesses to the crash to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Anyone who saw the van in the time leading up to or after the incident should contact he Major Collision Enquiry Team on 101.
