An inquest has revealed the heartbreaking details surrounding the tragic death of two-year-old Oria Henry, daughter of Rachael Leader, who previously appeared on Channel 4’s First Dates Hotel. The young girl was likely already deceased when her father, Ashley Henry, drove their car into the path of an oncoming lorry on Father’s Day last year, in what authorities suspect to be a murder-suicide.
Oria had spent the weekend with her father in Skegness, and they were returning to Leicestershire when the fatal incident occurred. The inquest, held at Grimsby Town Hall, determined that Oria’s death was the result of an unlawful act carried out before the road traffic collision, although the exact cause of her death remains undetermined.
Evidence presented at the inquest included a note found on Ashley’s computer, which outlined his intention to end both his and Oria’s lives on Father’s Day. The tragic circumstances surrounding the incident underscore the devastating impact of mental health struggles and relationship breakdowns.
Rachael Leader, Oria’s mother, expressed her profound grief and loss in a touching tribute to her daughter, highlighting the joy and light that Oria brought into her life. Despite the unimaginable pain of losing her daughter, Leader vowed to turn her grief into purpose and honour Oria’s memory through positive action.
The community rallied around Leader in her time of need, offering support and condolences as she navigated the aftermath of this devastating loss. She shared her ongoing struggles with grief on social media, expressing the profound sense of emptiness and disbelief she experienced in the wake of Oria’s death.
Oria’s funeral, held at Countesthorpe Crematorium, was a poignant farewell attended by mourners dressed in white, reflecting the purity and innocence of the young girl whose life was tragically cut short.
As Rachael Leader continues to grapple with her grief and seek solace in the memory of her beloved daughter, the harrowing circumstances of Oria’s death serve as a reminder of the urgent need for mental health support and resources for individuals and families facing similar challenges.
For those in need of support, Samaritans offers confidential assistance and can be reached at 116 123, or visit samaritans.org for more information. Additionally, The CALM Zone provides support for those in crisis, with resources available at https:///www.thecalmzone.net/get-support.
