Family pays tribute to Harley Pearce who died in tractor accident

The family of 21-year-old Harley Pearce, who died in a tractor collision, have paid tribute to him, describing him as a “golden boy with an infectious smile”.

21-year-old Harley Pearce, son of Stuart Pearce, died in a tractor collision in Witcombe, Gloucestershire Police confirms.
Family pays tribute to late Harley Pearce, photo by Gloucestershire Police.

Emergency services were called at around 2.30pm on Thursday, 16th October, with a report of a collision involving a tractor on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Witcombe, Gloucester.

According to Daily Mail, the driver of the tractor, Harley Pearce, lost control of the farm vehicle on a country road near his family home in Wiltshire. The tractor he was driving suffered a possible tyre blow-out which caused him to veer off the road.

He died at the scene. Harley was a son of a former football player and manager Stuart Pearce.

Harley’s family have now issued a tribute to him which reads: “Our family is truly shocked and utterly heartbroken at the loss of our cherished son and devoted brother, Harley.

“A soul who left an unforgettable imprint on all who knew him. He was a golden boy with an infectious smile, and this shocking tragedy will leave a huge hole in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

“With a quiet, understated strength and deep kindness, we are so proud of the young man he had become, exhibiting a wonderful work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit in the farming industry.

“He will always be our shining star. Rest in peace, our beautiful son and brother. You will never ever be forgotten.”

Harley’s family have asked that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

Investigating officers are still appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision or has any relevant dashcam footage to get in touch.

Information can be provided to police online by completing the following form and quoting incident 284 of 16th October here.

The thoughts of the Farmers Guide team are with the Pearce family during this difficult time and their continuing hardships. 

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