An inquest has named a woman who died after her car was involved in a two car collision. The passing of 60-year old Rosemary Wooldridge was recorded at a public hearing on December 30 by area coroner Alison Longhorn at Exeter County Hall, now the main coroner’s court for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.
Ms Longhorn opened the inquest, stating that Rosemary was born in Plymouth and resided at a property in Ham Drive, Plymouth. During the brief public hearing, Ms Longhorn said Rosemary was single at the time of her passing and recorded her occupation as a housewife.
Ms Longhorn said: “The circumstances are that Rosemary was driving along Ham Drive when her vehicle was struck head on by an oncoming vehicle travelling in the opposite direction in the incorrect carriageway. As a result, she suffered significant injuries and sadly died at the scene.
“The driver of the vehicle travelling in the incorrect carriageway initially fled the scene but was located a short time later and arrested. A forensic post-mortem has been conducted. The precise medical cause of death is yet to be ascertained.”
Ms Longhorn adjourned the hearing and a full inquest will take place at a later date.
At the time of the collision police confirmed the two vehicles involved were a grey Audi and a silver Ford Fiesta. A collisions investigator said a man, aged in his 30s and from Plymouth, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs.
He was taken to hospital to be treated for his injuries. The road was closed following the crash as investigation work took place. The man remains on police bail at this time as investigations continue.
Police have told PlymouthLive: “The 32-year-old man who was arrested is due to answer bail on 18 March.”
Following the untimely passing of Rosemary a number of tributes were paid to her, including those from the darts community of which she was a well regarded member.
Plymouth City Council has previously confirmed that any family or friends who wishes to attend the full inquest can request for it to be held at Plymouth’s Coroner’s Court rather than be forced to travel to the Exeter venue.
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