Channel 4 star reveals agony of her toddler daughter’s ‘murder’ by ‘psychotic’ ex & how she could have been killed too
A CHANNEL 4 star has revealed the agony of her young daughter's "murder" by a "psychotic" ex-boyfriend.
Rachael Leader, 32, fears she could have also been killed had she not refused to join her former partner for Father's Day in June.
Her two-year-old daughter Oria Henry was killed with her dad and ex-boyfriend Ashley Henry, 35, in a suspected murder-suicide four months ago.
The pair were killed driving back home from a weekend break at the seaside when they were involved in a fatal crash with a lorry on June 18.
Initially, the tragedy which happened in the Lincolnshire village of Anwick was treated as a straightforward collision.
But cops said after “careful consideration,” a murder investigation had been launched into the youngster’s death.
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Rachael took to social media today to say there is "no escape" from the agony as she is reminded daily of the devastating crash, with her daughter's toys still strewn across the house.
She said: "I don't understand how one could take their own child's life out of spite... it's psychotic."
The mum added: "I was invited on that trip but I declined because I already had plans.
"Imagine if I'd have gone. I don't think I'd be here to tell the tale."
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Rachael, who works in global procurement for soft drinks firm PepsiCo, appeared on Channel 4’s dating show spin-off First Dates Hotel in 2020.
She also described Oria as “beautiful” and “gorgeous” in a final message in June.
In a tribute released through police, 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."
An inquest into the two deaths is due to be held at Lincoln Coroner's Court on December 18.
In a witness appeal at the time of the fatal crash, Lincolnshire Police said: "We have launched a murder investigation after a fatal collision between a lorry and a car in Anwick.
“Driver Ashley Henry, 35, and passenger Oria Henry, 2, from Leicester were travelling along Main Road in a blue Nissan Quashqai when the incident took place at around 2.45pm on Sunday, 18 June.
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";Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Our investigation into the incident continues but after careful consideration we can confirm we have begun a murder investigation into the death of two-year-old Oria.
"We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident but cannot provide further details at this time."
