Man caused Durham University student’s death in Neville’s Cross crash

Liam Stephen Bowes pleaded guilty to causing Abigail Eggleston's death by dangerous driving, in the crash on the A167 at Neville's Cross, in the early hours of Sunday, October 26. Abi, 22, was taken to the RVI in Newcastle but died a short time later. Appearing at Durham Crown Court via video link from HMP Holme House in Stockton on Tuesday (November 25) morning, the 37-year-old also admitted doing an act or acts tending or intended to pervert the course of justice by setting fire to the Volkswagen Golf he was driving at the time of the crash.

Bowes, formerly of Eastern Avenue, Langley Park, also admitted driving without insurance and failing to stop. Scene of fatal hit and run on the A167 at Neville's Cross, Durham, in the early hours of Sunday October 26 (Image: Arjan Koci/FB) The motor mechanic business owner will be sentenced on March 7, 2026, at Teesside Crown Court, subject to the prosecution having no issue with his basis of plea, which will be submitted to the court next month.

Bowes indicated guilty pleas when he appeared before magistrates in Newton Aycliffe last month. Judge Nathan Adams told him: "You have pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving as well as associated charges and various motoring offences. "I understand there will be a basis put forward and that will be confirmed in writing by December 9.

"There will be a short hearing before Judge Laird KC, at Middlesbrough, in early January to ensure everything is on track. "You are obviously facing a lengthy prison sentence. "You will remain in custody in the meantime."

Abigail Eggleston died from a blunt force head injury in hit and run collision on the A167 at Neville's Cross on Sunday October 26 (Image: Durham Constabulary) As a technicality, he was issued an interim driving ban, but remains behind bars. Abi Eggleston was crossing the A167 shortly before 2am when she was struck by Bowes.

Floral tributes at Neville's Cross. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) She was a second-year law student at Durham University, originally from Northamptonshire. Her family previously paid an emotional tribute to her, saying their daughter had been "cruelly snatched" from them.

It continued: "Such a beautiful, kind, strong go-getter, we will forever remain so incredibly proud.

"Always ready to help others with your endless loving support, advice and encouragement, selflessly prioritising people's happiness above your own."

An inquest opened earlier this month heard a post-mortem examination concluded she died of a blunt force head injury.