Inquest opened after 18-year-old woman's crash death

An inquest has been opened into the death of an 18-year-old woman who died following a crash in Oxfordshire.

Esme Heaton-Biggs's white Volkswagen Polo and a white Mercedes were involved in a collision on Bloxham Road, Banbury, on 3 October. She died later in hospital.

Oxford Coroner's Court heard her medical cause of death "remains under investigation". A full inquest is set to take place on 12 April 2027.

Brian Mclaren, 36, has been charged with offences including causing death by dangerous driving.

Thames Valley Police said a 33-year-old woman who was previously arrested has been released with no further action, and a 24-year-old man who was arrested remains on bail.

In a tribute statement, Esme's family described her as a "beautiful human being, on the inside and the outside".

"The world got suddenly dimmer as one of the brightest and most unique lights left us too soon," they said.

A fundraiser set up in Esme's memory for Dogs for Good has reached more than £15,000.

Mclaren, of Vincent Way, Banbury, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and driving above the legal alcohol level.

He will appear at Oxford Crown Court on 6 November.