Two-year probe into Darlington crash that killed teen continues

Durham Police confirmed enquires remain ongoing into a horror crash on Yarm Road in Darlington on February 28, 2024 which claimed the life of 19-year-old Carla Scown.

Carla was riding pillion on the motorbike when it crashed with a HGV near the junction with Barrington Way at about 5.30pm.

Police at the scene on Yarm Road, Darlington on February 28, 2024. (Image: CONTRIBUTOR)

Police launched an investigation after the incident and arrested the 20-year-old driver of the motorcycle. He was later released under investigation.

An inquest was opened into her death later that year at Crook Coroner’s Court and heard she died of injuries to her upper body and head.

Coroner’s officer Alexis Blighe told Senior Coroner Jeremy Chipperfield: “I understand the circumstances to be that Miss Scown was a pillion passenger on a motorcycle which was involved in an RTC on Yarm Road in Darlington.

“On February 29, 2024, Dr Nigel Cooper conducted a post-mortem examination at Darlington Memorial Hospital mortuary and gave the cause of death as head, chest and abdominal injuries.”

Floral tributes remained at the scene in the days and weeks following Carla’s death.

Floral tributes at the scene (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Her heartbroken mum Fiona previously said her daughter’s death had “left a huge hole” in her heart.

She said: “Carla was such a loving daughter, sister, cousin and friend who loved all her family and friends.

“Carla will be very sadly missed every single day; she has left a huge hole in so many hearts of her family and friends.”

“She had the time of day for everyone and made all her friends and family so happy with her loving attitude towards them and life.”