An 18-year-old woman who died following a crash in Oxfordshire has been described by her family as a "funny, witty and kind" and "beautiful human being, on the inside and out." Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs died in hospital after the white VW Polo she was driving collided with a white Mercedes on Bloxham Road, Banbury, at around 9.20pm on Saturday (October 3).
Family tribute
In a statement released through Thames Valley Police, her family said: "On Sunday the 4th of October the world got suddenly dimmer as one of the brightest and most unique lights left us too soon. Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs was a funny, kind, stubborn, witty and beautiful human being, on the inside and the outside. Loved by family and friends alike, a much loved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and cousin."
The family added that she leaves behind a mum who will miss her smile, a dad who will miss her cheeky temperament, a brother who lost his "pink version of himself," and a group of friends who considered her "their spark" and the glue holding them together, the Daily Mail reports.
Court appearance
Following the collision, 36-year-old Brian McLaren appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court on Monday. He has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by driving whilst disqualified, causing death by due care while over the prescribed limit, driving while disqualified, and driving above the legal alcohol level.
Two other individuals - a 24-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman - were also arrested in connection with the fatal incident and have been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Appeal for witnesses
Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to step forward. Detective Sergeant Lyndsey Blackaby, from the serious collision investigation unit, said: "Our thoughts remain with the young woman's family and friends at this devastating time. We are working hard to establish exactly what happened and would urge anyone who witnessed the collision, or has relevant footage, to come forward as a matter of urgency."
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101 or via the Thames Valley Police website, quoting reference number 43260517700.
