TRIBUTES have been paid to the son of the former Dorset police and crime commissioner who died in a crash earlier this month.
Benjamin Jon Underhill, the son of former PCC Martyn Underhill, suffered a severe head injury after exiting a moving car.
The family of the 39-year-old father said he will be “sorely missed” following his death at Southampton General Hospital on August 11.
Martyn Underhill, on behalf of the family, said: “Ben was a loving son and a loving father to Harvey. He will be sorely missed.
“The family have drawn strength from the fact his donated organs have helped other needy people.”
Benjamin’s family is asking for charitable donations to be made to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, which took him to hospital following the incident on August 8.
Speaking at the inquest opening held at Bournemouth town hall, coroner’s assistant Matt Cove said: “On August 8, 2023, police and ambulance were called to reports of an unresponsive male in Wimborne.
Read more: Man has died after 'exiting' moving car near Wimborne
“Mr Underhill was taken to Southampton Hospital and scanners showed a severe head injury which was deemed un-survivable.
“He sadly died on August 11.
A postmortem examination done by Dr Jeremy Whittles at Southampton Hospital gave a medical cause of death as a severe traumatic head injury, the inquest heard.
Benjamin’s inquest was adjourned until April 4, 2024.
Police continue to investigate the incident which happened in Holt Road, Mannington, near Wimborne, in which Benjamin left a moving black Mazda 3 hatchback.
Inspector Craig Tatton, of the roads policing team, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died at this very difficult time.
A 45-year-old Verwood man was arrested on suspicion of a driving offence and inflicting grievous bodily harm following the incident.
In the days afterwards, he was released without charge in relation to the offence of inflicting grievous bodily harm but remains under investigation in relation to the driving offence.
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