Inquest to open into death of teenager in Banbury crash

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 16:38 · Archive

The inquest into Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs, 18, who died after a crash in Banbury on October 3, will open on Wednesday, October 21.

The inquest into Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs, 18, will be opened by senior coroner Darren Salter on Wednesday, October 21. She died at John Radcliffe Hospital following a crash on Bloxham Road in Banbury on Saturday, October 3, at around 9.20pm. A white Mercedes and a white Volkswagen Polo collided near the junction with Springfield Avenue. Esme was the driver of the Polo and was taken to hospital but died the following day.

The inquest is expected to be suspended pending criminal proceedings. Brian McLaren, a 36-year-old Banbury man, has been charged with death by dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified, causing death by due care while over the prescribed limit, and driving a motor vehicle when his alcohol level was above the limit. He was remanded after appearing at High Wycombe Magistrates Court and will next appear at Oxford Crown Court on November 6.

Esme's family described her as a 'funny, kind, stubborn, witty and beautiful human being' who was the 'spark' of her friendship group. A GoFundMe set up for the family has raised more than £14,000.

How it is being reported

• Inquest to open into death of 18-year-old after crashThe inquest into the teenage girl who was tragically killed in a crash will be opened next week.Oxford Mail · 14 Oct, 16:00
• Inquest to open into death of 18-year-old after crashThe inquest into the teenage girl who was tragically killed in a crash will be opened next week.Oxfordshire Guardian · 14 Oct, 16:00

In this story: Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs · Brian McLaren · Darren Salter · Banbury · John Radcliffe Hospital

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