Rhianna Benson
Warning: This article contains discussion of suicide which some readers may find distressing.
A disturbing note had revealed what was going through the head of a dad who purposefully drove his car into a truck, killing himself and his two-year-old daughter.
On 18 June 2023 - which just so happened to be Father's Day - dad-of-one Ashley has taken his little girl Oria for fish and chips followed by ice-cream by the seaside in Lincolnshire.
During the drive back to drop his daughter off with her mother, Rachael Leader, however, Ashley made the fatal decision to drive head-first into an incoming lorry.
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The driver of the colossal truck David Ewington survived the crash, despite claiming in court that Ashley's car - a Nissan Qashqai - 'came out of nowhere' before smashing directly into his lorry.
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Ashley's vehicle was then flipped onto its roof, killing the two passengers.
It was discovered by attendees to the gruesome scene that Ashley had died instantly from the serious traumatic injuries, whilst Oria was found lifeless in her car seat on the passenger side.
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An inquest was subsequently launched, investigating Ashley's intentions, after it was found that Oria may have been killed prior to the crash, possibly through suffocation - although pathologist Dr Stuart Hamilton admitted he could not prove his suspicions.
After the death of Ashley and Oria, police found a note on his laptop titled 'Bye'.
The note said that Oria was the 'best thing' to ever happen to him, but he 'worried about being replaced' in her life.
Oria’s mother, Rachael - who previously appeared on Channel 4’s First Dates Hotel back in 2020 before meeting Ashley - told investigators of her emotional anguish and heartbreak, revealing that the crash had taken place two weeks after the duo had ended their relationship.
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Ashley's note included: "I must apologise. It was not an accident. It was done purposely by myself."
Rachael sobbed as the details of the note were read aloud to Lincolnshire’s Crown Court.
Her tribute to her daughter was issued by Lincolnshire Police, reading: "To my darling daughter, Oria. I love you so much. I’m so sorry your precious life was taken from you.
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"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."
The tear-jerking message went on: "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.
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"I love you Oria, mummy xxx."
The inquest continues.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, please don’t suffer alone. Call Samaritans for free on their anonymous 24-hour phone line on 116 123.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.