Man admits killing “ray of sunshine” Durham University student

A man who set fire to a car after he hit and killed a law student who was “on track to conquer the world” has been convicted.

Abigail Eggleston was crossing the A167 at Neville’s Cross in the early hours of October 26 when she was hit by a Volkswagen Golf being driven at speed by Liam Bowes.

The 22-year-old Durham University student was taken to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, but sadly died a short time later.

Bowes, who did not stop at the scene of the collision, was arrested by police after officers found the Golf abandoned in a layby near Town Kelloe later that day.

The car had been set on fire and was heavily smoke damaged.

Bowes was taken into police custody where he was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, perverting the course of justice, driving without insurance, and failing to stop after a collision.

The 37-year-old, of Kelloe, appeared at Durham Crown Court today (November 25) where he admitted the offences.

He was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Teesside Crown Court on March 2 next year.

Three other people – two men aged 38 and a 59-year-old woman - were also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

They were released on bail while further enquiries are carried out.

Abi leaves behind her mother, father, sister, nan, granddad, boyfriend, and her much-loved cat, Spencer. 

In an emotional tribute, her family described her as “a constant ray of sunshine, always looking on the bright side of life and reflecting your warm glow upon anyone fortunate to have known and loved you”.

They added: “You have been cruelly snatched from us much too soon darling, a great hole has 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.”