A seven-year-old boy died after being crushed in a car park after a rugby match as he was changing out of his boots.

Alfie Tollett had just watched his brother play in a match at Plymstock Albion Oaks RFC in Plymouth, and was putting his shoes back on when he got wedged between two cars, a coroner heard.

At the opening of the inquest, a statement on behalf of Ian Arrow, the coroner, revealed that an electric vehicle had been struggling to park and “shunted” another parked car into Alfie that caused the fatal crush.

Police said he sustained serious injuries and was taken to Derriford Hospital where he was pronounced dead about an hour after the incident on Feb 19.

His official cause of death was given as blunt force traumatic chest injuries. 

A 55-year-old man arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving has been released on bail until May, while police appealed for witnesses and nearby dashcam footage.

‘Our hearts are completely broken’

In a statement, Alfie’s family said that his death had “left a massive hole”.

They added: “Our Alfie was not just our son and brother, but also a grandson, a cousin, a nephew and a friend to so many people.

“He was our special cheeky, funny and precious little man. Our hearts are completely broken. We are so numb and are struggling to understand why this has happened.

“Thank you for the best seven years of our lives. All our love Mummy, Daddy, Jack and Teddy. X”

Paying tribute on Facebook, Plymstock Oaks RFC, said: ‘It is with deep shock and sadness that we regret to inform you of the tragic loss of a young life of one of our own today.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and their friends during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.”