A TEEN girl killed in a school minibus crash that left nine children hurt suffered torso injuries in the horror, an inquest heard.
Eleanor Lydia Hague, 16, was travelling in the bus carrying sixth form students when it collided with a Hyundai in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire.
The Hyundai driver – a woman in her 40s – was arrested and bailed on suspicion of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving.
An inquest heard Eleanor – known as Ellie – was identified by her dad following the December 1 crash.
Senior coroner Jon Heath said: “The circumstances known at this time were that Eleanor Lydia Hague was a passenger in a minibus which was in a collision with a car and her death was confirmed at the scene.
“The provisional cause of death at this stage is torso injuries.”
A full inquest will take place at a later date “pending ongoing inquiries by the police“.
Ellie was one of nine students aged 16 to 18 from Tadcaster Grammar School and Sherburn High School travelling on the Mercedes Sprinter minibus.
The Year 12 pupil tragically died at the scene while another teen girl was rushed to hospital with serious injuries.
Other pupils on board and the male minibus driver were treated in hospital for minor injuries.
Heartbroken staff at Ellie’s school paid an emotional tribute, describing her as a “lovely, bubbly young person” who lit up every room.
A letter sent to parents and students read: “Ellie was well loved by those around her and we all loved Ellie’s fantastic sense of humour.
“To see her with her group of friends, laughing and interacting with each other always brought a lightness to the lessons she was in.
“Ellie will be sorely missed by fellow students, staff and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Our deepest thoughts remain with Ellie’s family and friends.
“We are devastated to have lost Ellie from our school.”
Dance school Excel Theatre Arts said they have “lost one of our family members” following the tragedy.
The company added: “Eleanor Hague was the most hard working person we had ever taught.
“Eleanor was with us from a very young age and is an amazing dancer and person.
“We as a school are in shock and devastation after what has happened. Eleanor was taken from this world far too young.
“A gorgeous girl who was always polite and loved by everyone in the school. You were an inspiration to everyone that watched you dance. Our hearts are breaking for your family.
“We will never forget you Eleanor.”
