Overview
- A head-on collision on the A61 left six people dead and one 11-year-old survivor after a car struck a motorcycle and the car caught fire on 21 July 2024.
- Wakefield Coroner’s Court found the crash followed a motorcycle overtaking, which led to the head-on impact that spun the car and caused a fire that trapped occupants.
- On 21 September 2026 police charged 50-year-old Christopher Cockell with six counts of causing death by dangerous driving and he is due at Leeds Magistrates' Court on 28 October 2026.
- West Yorkshire Police are collecting evidence, have appealed for witnesses and dashcam or CCTV footage, and temporarily closed the A61 during early investigations.
- Local fundraisers continue to support the bereaved 11-year-old, who has lost her parents and two siblings, while the magistrates' hearing is expected to determine whether the case moves to Crown Court for trial.