Toddler was already dead before dad crashed both into oncoming lorry

A father left a note on his computer explaining his intentions to end both his and his daughter's lives on Father's Day last year, an inquest heard. Oria Henry, 2, had spent the weekend in Skegness^[1] with her father and was last seen alive at 10.48am on June 18, 2023.

An inquest, held at Grimsby Town Hall on April 10, 2024, heard how Oria's father, Ashley, was driving them back to Leicestershire when he pulled out of a carriageway and drove directly into the path of an oncoming HGV. A pathologist identified a number of features to evidence that it was probable Oria was not alive at the time of the collision and it has not been possible to determine exactly how she died.

However, the coroner's report says that her death was likely the result of an unlawful act which was carried out at some point before the road traffic collision. The inquest heard how Oria's father Ashley was estranged from his partner and had access to her at weekends.

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He had a limited medical history but this did include periods of anxiety and depression and he was not taking the break-up of their relationship well. There was no evidence of any braking of the car prior to the collision and a note recovered from Ashley's computer, which was located at his home address, set out clearly his purpose and intention to end both his own life, and that of his daughter, on Father's Day last June.

The crash took place on the A153 between Ruskington and Anwick. A murder investigation was launched shortly after the crash.

Oria's mum, Rachael Leader, released a touching tribute to her two-year-old daughter after the tragic incident. She said: "To my darling daughter, Oria. I love you so much. I’m so sorry your precious life was taken from you. You gave me so much light sweetheart, so much love and so much happiness.

"I will cherish each and every moment we had together. You had the most beautiful smile and gorgeous curly hair. You touched the hearts of many, Oria, and I’m so incredibly proud to be your mummy. I miss you so much.

"Whilst the pain of losing you is indescribable, I will turn it into purpose, for you and for us. You chose me for a reason and will continue to shine your light through me. We will shine together. My darling girl, my baby, God will keep you safe until we meet again in heaven. I love you, Oria."

References

1. ^{^} Skegness (www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk)
2. ^{^} Get the latest Lincolnshire Live news with our email newsletters (www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk)