A WOMAN killed in a “hit-and-run” is named as a university student who was “on track to conquer the world”.
Abigail Eggleston, a student at Durham University, was hit by a car shortly before 2am on Sunday.
The 22-year-old law student was crossing the road at Neville’s Cross in Durham when the car crashed into her
North East Ambulance service rushed her to hospital with serious head and chest injuries but she tragically died a short time later.
Abigail leaves behind her mother, father, sister, nan, granddad, boyfriend and Spencer, her much loved cat.
Her heartbroken family paid an emotional tribute to their “ray of sunshine”. They said: “Abi, a much loved and treasured daughter, sister, granddaughter and girlfriend.
“You were on track to conquer the world, studying hard for your law degree and having fun discovering the world. Such a beautiful, kind, strong go-getter, we will forever remain so incredibly proud.
“Always ready to help others with your endless loving support, advice and encouragement, selflessly prioritising people’s happiness above your own.
“A constant ray of sunshine always looking on the bright side of life and reflecting your warm glow upon anyone fortunate enough to have known and loved you.
“Wise beyond your young years, we have learned valuable life lessons from you, we intend to stay strong and also make you proud.
“You have been cruelly snatched from us and too soon darling, a great hole had been left in your place and life can never be the same again without you.”
“Rest in peace precious angel, the only thing that can keep us going is knowing we will meet again.”
Abigail’s loved ones thanked Durham Police and members of the public who helped with the search for information and offered support at “this unfathomably difficult time.”
Nathan Sempala-Ntege, Principal of John Snow College at Durham University, paid tribute to the “talented” and “kind” student.
He said: “We are all shocked and deeply saddened by Abigail Eggleston’s death. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this extremely difficult time.
“Abigail was a third-year Law student at John Snow College. She was a talented, kind committed student and a popular member of her college.
She contributed actively to college life, including as a member of the executive of our Disability Support Society.
“Abigail loved her time at Durham and had a wide range of friends across the university, who will all miss her desperately.
“We continue to offer our full support to any students or staff who have been personally affected by Abigail’s death.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland, who is leading the investigation for Durham Police, told ChronicleLive the incident had been “harrowing”. He asked that anyone with information relating to the crash should come forward.
“Her family have been incredibly dignified during what has been, and continues to be, an utterly heartbreaking time for them. We are determined to do everything we can to obtain justice for them,” he added.
Cops have charged a 37-year-old man with causing death by dangerous driving, perverting the course of justice, driving with no insurance and failing to stop after a collision.
Liam Bowes, appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrate’s Court this morning and his next appearance will be at Durham Crown Court on November 25.
Police arrested two men aged 38 and a woman, 59, on suspicion of assisting an offender but all three have been released on bail while more enquires are made.
Anyone with information can call the local police on 101 or submit information anonymously though CrimeStoppers quoting incident number: 41.
