The family of an 18-year-old woman killed in a car crash in Oxfordshire has paid tribute to her as a 'witty and beautiful' teenager. Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs died after her white Volkswagen Polo was involved in a collision with a Mercedes on Bloxham Road, Banbury, on Saturday evening.
Emergency services were alerted to the scene at about 9.20pm, where they found Ms Heaton-Biggs seriously injured. She was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Family tribute to a 'bright and unique light'
Her family described her as a practical joker who could lift everyone's mood. In a statement, they 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, Grandaughter, Niece and cousin.'
They added: 'She leaves behind a Mum that will miss her smile and her laughter, and her uncanny ability to lift anyone up who needed it. She leaves behind a Dad that will miss her practical jokes, and cheeky temperament that could lighten everyone's day up.'
Community support and investigation
The family thanked residents of Easington and Banbury, the emergency services and medics at the hospital. 'Knowing that Esme was taken care of to such a high degree by so many brings a great level of comfort in this incredibly difficult time,' they said.
Locals paid tribute on social media, with one mother saying: 'Having a daughter the same age who drives this route regularly, I cannot imagine the loss being felt this family.' Another wrote: 'This is so awful! I'm struggling to find any words but want the family to know that the whole of Banbury has their arm around them in this moment!'
Brian Mclaren, 36, from Banbury, was charged with motoring offences over the crash, including causing death by dangerous driving, driving while over the alcohol limit and driving while disqualified. He appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court, where he was remanded before his next scheduled hearing at Oxford Crown Court on November 6. A 24-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman were also arrested and released on bail while the investigation continues.
