Inquest opens into deaths of Rita Cash and Francie Connors and their three-year-old daughter Kathleen after crash on A228 Boyle Way, East Peckham

An inquest has opened into the deaths of a young family. Rita Cash and Francie Connors, and their three-year-old daughter, Kathleen Connors, died following a crash between their pony and trap and a tipper truck on April 1.

Rita and Francie Connors both died after a crash with a tipper truck in East Peckham on April 1. Picture: Facebook

It happened on the A228 Boyle Way, East Peckham, shortly before 6.30pm, prompting a large emergency response. Despite life-saving efforts Francie, 31, and Kathleen, known as Ka, died at the scene.

Mother of four Rita suffered a catastrophic head injury and was taken to King's Hospital in London in a critical condition. She died on April 8. Today, an inquest opened into their deaths at Oakwood House coroner's court in Maidstone.

Family members were in attendance. During the hearing, DC David Clarkson, from the Serious Collisions Investigation Unit, confirmed inquiries were ongoing.

Rita and Francie died after a crash in Boyle Way, East Peckham. Picture: Paddy Doherty Facebook

At the time of the crash, the driver of a white DAF tipper, a 29-year-old man from Kent, was arrested on suspicion of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving and driving while unfit. He has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Officers say the truck was being driven on the southbound carriageway, between the junctions of Branbridges Road and Hale Street, when it was involved in the collision with the pony and trap travelling in the same direction.

The force confirmed the pony also died at the scene. Area corner Catherine Wood suspended the inquest until the end of the investigation.

Francie Connors died in the crash in Boyle Way, East Peckham. Picture: Paddy Doherty Facebook

Rita Connors died following the crash in East Peckham. Picture: Facebook

Floral tributes have been laid at the scene of the collision[1], with more kind words from others pouring in on social media. Big Fat Gypsy Wedding star Paddy Doherty was among the many to pay tribute and shared a heartfelt video on social media, urging people to keep the family in their thoughts.

Hundreds of people commented on social media to share their prayers, sympathy and well wishes, with many writing: "Healing prayers and love going out to you."

Anyone who saw the truck or pony and trap prior to the collision, is urged to contact the appeal line.

Call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538, quoting reference BN/JG/027/26 or email [email protected]

References

1. ^ tributes have been laid at the scene of the collision (www.kentonline.co.uk)