A tragic incident unfolded as a young beauty queen lost her life in a devastating accident involving her own car while unloading items during winter, as revealed in an inquest today.
Eleisha Skinner, a 21-year-old student at Buckinghamshire New University, met with the unfortunate incident when she was unloading her belongings from her black Audi A1 outside her residence in High Wycombe on January 4 after returning from the Christmas break. While unloading items from the rear of the vehicle, the car unexpectedly shifted, pinning Ms. Skinner against a wall outside the accommodation, according to statements presented at the coroner’s court.
Emergency services were alerted by a resident at the accommodation who heard alarming sounds and discovered the unconscious young woman. The icy conditions of the driveway due to winter weather were highlighted by the police at the scene, indicating a slippery surface that led to the tragic accident, as relayed by senior coroner Crispin Butler at the Buckinghamshire Coroner’s Court. Despite efforts to save her, Ms. Skinner passed away at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford on January 8.
During the proceedings, Mr. Butler pointed out the lack of salt or grit on the driveway and the absence of barriers or railings to prevent such incidents from occurring. Subsequently, a letter from the accommodation owners, Howarth Property, confirmed the installation of railings following the incident to enhance driveway safety measures.
Despite assessments deeming the property safe, Mr. Butler issued a report highlighting concerns about potential future accidents, prompting a call for necessary actions by Howarth Property within 56 days to address safety shortcomings.
Ms. Skinner’s car, found in proper condition with no defects and the handbrake fully engaged, was confirmed by a medical examination. The cause of her tragic death was attributed to anoxic brain injury resulting from asphyxia compression, meaning pressure on her body hindered normal breathing.
In a heartfelt tribute, Ms. Skinner’s family described her as a kind, selfless, and passionate individual who brightened the world with her presence. The family expressed enduring love and remembrance for Eleisha, emphasizing her positive impact on those around her.
Buckinghamshire New University announced posthumously awarding Ms. Skinner a BSc with honors in social work as a tribute to her academic pursuits and character.
