A devastating incident has struck the community of Preston, Lancashire, as two teenagers who participated in Freddie Flintoff's BBC One documentary "Field of Dreams" lost their lives in a tragic car accident. The event occurred on September 10, 2024, sending shockwaves through the local area and the cricket community.
Umar Mahmood, 18, was behind the wheel of an Audi A3 Sport when the vehicle veered off the road and collided with trees. Mahmood succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Adam Bodi, 16, a backseat passenger, also lost his life in the crash. A third occupant, a 17-year-old, remains hospitalized.
The incident has left the community in mourning, with tributes pouring in for the young victims. Matt Eastham, principal of Penwortham Priory Academy, where both teenagers had studied, shared heartfelt words about the departed students.
"Umar was a bright, studious and well-loved member of our school community. He had a passion for geography as well as his cricket, playing for Priory's school team and appearing in the BBC One documentary Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams. It was a privilege for us here at Priory to know Umar."
Eastham also remembered Adam Bodi, who had recently completed his GCSEs in the summer of 2024, describing him as an "amazing pupil" with "fantastic memories."
The tragedy has brought attention to Freddie Flintoff's efforts to introduce cricket to underprivileged youth. Flintoff, a former English cricketer who played a crucial role in England's 2005 Ashes victory, has been actively involved in mentoring young cricketers since his retirement in 2010. His documentary series aimed to showcase the transformative power of sports in young lives.
Flintoff himself is no stranger to accidents, having survived a severe crash in December 2022 while filming for Top Gear. The incident left him with visible injuries and struggling with anxiety, as revealed in the first episode of his "Field of Dreams" series.
Lancashire Police are currently investigating the circumstances of the accident. Sgt Paul McCurrie has appealed for witnesses and anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage from the Chain Caul Lane area to come forward.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. As the community grieves, the legacy of these young individuals, their passion for cricket, and the impact of Flintoff's mentorship program will undoubtedly be remembered.