First Dates star’s ex ‘suffocated’ toddler daughter, 2, before ploughing into lorry with her body in car, inquest hears
Hours leading up to fatal crash emerge
A FIRST Date star’s ex possibly suffocated their daughter before killing himself in a horror crash while her body was in the car, an inquest heard.
Ashley Henry, 35, smashed head-on into a lorry after returning from a seaside break with two-year-old Oria Henry on Father’s Day.
An inquest was told how little Oria may have been killed before the crash – possibly through suffocation.
Area Coroner for Greater Lincolnshire Jayne Wilkes ruled Oria was unlawfully killed by her dad, who died as a result of suicide.
She said: “Was Oria alive at the time of the crash? The doctor said she was probably not and his evidence was compelling.
“There was no guarantee that both would be killed, possibly one and the other could have been left with significant life changing injuries.
“It is possible, probable, that Ashley made sure Oria would not survive.”
Ashley had split with the youngster’s mum Rachael Leader, who appeared on Channel 4’s dating show spin-off First Dates Hotel in 2020, just two weeks before the tragedy.
Following his death, police found a chilling note entitled “Bye” on his laptop that outlined his plans.
Rachael sobbed in court as the harrowing details of his self-proclaimed “dark torture” were read out.
Father’s Day horror
Ashley told how he was “worried about being replaced in Oria’s life” as Rachael had moved on with a new boyfriend.
He also explained how Oria was the “best thing to happen to me” but feared he would have “nothing to live for” if she was taken away.
Ashley added: “I must apologise. It was not an accident. It was done purposely by myself.
“I do not know if there were any other casualties.”
Ashley had booked into the South View Caravan Park in Skegness, Lincolnshire, in June last year for Father’s Day with Oria.
His note told how the pair spent their last day on the beach together tucking into fish and chips and ice cream.
He was returning the toddler back to her mother when he crashed into the oncoming lorry – causing it to jackknife.
You gave me so much light sweetheart, so much love and so much happiness. I will cherish each and every moment we had together.
Rachael Leader
Ashley died instantly from multiple serious traumatic injuries and was trapped in the vehicle.
The inquest heard Oria was found strapped into her car seat in the front passenger seat.
Lorry driver David Ewington told the hearing the Nissan “came out of nowhere across the road” before hitting him.
He at first believed the car must have had a puncture and was unable to avoid the pair as they hurtled head-on towards him.
The crash in Anwick, Lincolnshire, was initially treated as an accidental collision but police launched a murder investigation two days later.
Rachael paid tribute to her “darling girl” in a tribute issued by Lincolnshire Police.
You're Not Alone
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, , 0800 585 858
- Heads Together,
- HUMEN
- Mind, , 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus,, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans,, 116 123
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.
“I love you Oria, mummy xxx”.
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
