Sounds like a patch of black ice to me. Real slippery piece of business. Plus hitting just the wrong object in just the wrong way. Sometimes things happen you just can't forsee.
A message for his wife, and the mother of his child: It wasn't you, it wasn't him, it was just stinking bad luck. Take some time for yourself and the kobold, and get back into things when you are ready.
I got some more information this morning. Patrick was responding to another accident. He was a cop. He was apparently not buckled up and died almost instantly when his vehicle rolled over. I guess the roads were very bad in the area and there were several accidents yesterday morning, although he was the only fatality.
I suppose that if you have to go sometime, going while on your way to help someone else out who is also in trouble is a good way. There are many worse ways and circumstances to leave this life. Still, it will be hard for the wife and the child....
I am sorry for your loss Starman. I know what it is like to suddenly lose a close one, as are many in here, I think. You will both be in my thoughts and prayers.
I am sorry that you had to lose someone your were close with. Losing someone like that- whether they be family or friend- is never easy. My condolences to you, his family, and the rest of his friends.
I have been there too I'm afraid, having lost a lifelong friend and fellow ENWorlder to a heart attack at 33. I know that the community will be there for you as they were for me. If you feel the need to talk to someone about this, feel free to e-mail me directly.