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

An inquest has been opened into the death of 18-year-old Esme Heaton-Biggs following a crash in Oxfordshire. She was involved in a collision on Bloxham Road in Banbury on 3 October, involving a white Volkswagen Polo and a white Mercedes, and died later in hospital. The Oxford Coroner’s Court heard that the medical cause of death is still under investigation. A full inquest is scheduled for 12 April 2027. Thames Valley Police said Brian McLaren, 36, has been charged with offences including causing death by dangerous driving. A previously arrested 33-year-old woman was released with no further action, while a 24-year-old man remains on bail. McLaren, from Vincent Way, Banbury, will appear at Oxford Crown Court on 6 November.