Family pay tribute to 18-year-old woman killed in Banbury crash
Esme Heaton-Biggs has been described by her family as "their spark"
The family of a woman who died after a crash in Banbury have paid tribute to her.
Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs, who was 18, has been described by her family as "one of the brightest and most unique lights".
In their tribute, they said: "On Sunday the 4th of October the world got suddenly dimmer as one of the brightest and most unique lights left us too soon.
"Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs was a funny, kind, stubborn, witty and beautiful human being, on the inside and the outside. Loved by Family and Friends alike, a much loved Daughter, Sister, Grandaughter, Niece and cousin.
"She leaves behind a Mum that will miss her smile and her laughter, and her uncanny ability to lift anyone up who needed it,
"She leaves behind a Dad that will miss her practical jokes, and cheeky temperament that could lighten everyone's day up,
"She leaves behind a brother that will miss his little sister, the pink version of himself, the one person that was always pushed him to do more,
"She leaves behind a sister-in-law that will miss spontaneous messages, pictures, singalongs and shopping trips,
"She leaves behind a group of friends who describe her as 'their spark' and the glue that held the social group together.
"The tragic loss of Esme leaves a profoundly large hole in the hearts of so many for so many different reasons, and she has been tragically taken from all of us far too soon,
"Esme has barely just begun her adult life, going on holidays and nights out with her friends, and making plans with everyone who ever wanted to make plans, so she could live the fullest and most fulfilling life possible,
"Finally, from the family, to the people and residents of Easington and Banbury, to the Fire Service, Ambulance Staff, Police, the staff at the John Radcliffe Hospital and anyone and everyone who helped Esme, Thank you, knowing that Esme was taken care of to such a high degree by so many brings a great level of comfort in this incredibly difficult time."
Esme was driving a white Volkswagen Polo involved in a crash with a white Mercedes on Bloxham Road, close to the junction with Springfield Avenue, at around 9.20pm on Saturday.
She was taken to hospital but later died.
Three people from Banbury have been arrested in connection with the crash and all remain in police custody.
Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses and footage.
Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Lyndsey Blackaby, of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Firstly, our thoughts remain with the young woman's family and friends at this devastating time.
"We are working hard to establish exactly what happened and would urge anyone who witnessed the collision, or has relevant footage, to come forward as a matter of urgency.
"A number of people were at the scene and if you have not yet spoken to us, to please get in touch.
"I also ask any drivers who were in the area at the time and have dashcam footage to review it, as it may contain important information about the collision or the moments leading up to it."
Anyone with information can contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101 or through its website, or share information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.