Pensioner died days after head-on crash near Shrewsbury, inquest is told
An 84-year-old man drove head-on into the path of a lorry on one of Shropshire's busiest roads after leaving his family a note saying he was going to kill himself, an inquest heard.
George Albert Price, who was suffering with motor neurone disease, died in hospital four days after the crash on the A49 near Dorrington, between Shrewsbury and Church Stretton, in the early hours of May 3.
But Shropshire coroner Mr John Ellery, speaking at an inquest at Shirehall, did not record a verdict of suicide.
He said he could not be sure "beyond reasonable doubt" that Mr Price had intended to kill himself.
The coroner recorded a narrative verdict, saying: "He drove into the path of a heavy goods vehicle, but his intent could not be established beyond doubt."
Mr Price, of Linley Avenue, Pontesbury, near Shrewsbury, was unable to speak but left a note before leaving the house on the morning of the accident which read: "I have had a fall, I think I have cracked some ribs.
"I love you all, you have done all you can for me. I am going to kill myself."
The inquest heard from Mr Price's son Keith, who said he did not believe his father committed suicide.
Speaking at the inquest, he said: "I do not believe he intended to take his own life that morning.
"He would never have done it in such a way to risk hurting other people. He was far too kind for that."
The road was closed in both directions following the accident, which took place at about 5.20am on May 3.
