Hit-and-Run Driver Admits Killing Durham University Student in A167 Collision

A hit-and-run driver has admitted causing the death of a 22-year-old Durham University law student who was struck while crossing the A167 at Neville’s Cross.

Abigail Eggleston was hit in the early hours of October 26 by a Volkswagen Golf driven at speed by Liam Bowes, 37, of Kelloe. She was taken to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary but died a short time later.

Bowes appeared at Durham Crown Court on Tuesday, November 25, where he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, driving without insurance, perverting the course of justice, and failing to stop after the collision. He was remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on March 2 next year.

Following the crash, Bowes set fire to the vehicle and abandoned it in a layby near Town Kelloe. Police later found the heavily smoke-damaged car and arrested Bowes.

Two men, aged 38, and a 59-year-old woman were also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and have been released on bail as enquiries continue.

Abigail’s family described her as a “constant ray of sunshine”, saying she always “reflected her warm glow upon anyone fortunate enough to have known and loved her”. In a tribute issued through Durham Constabulary, they added: “You have been cruelly snatched from us much too soon. A great hole has been left in your place and life can never be the same again without you.”

Abigail is survived by her parents, sister, grandparents, boyfriend, and her much-loved cat, Spencer.

Police investigations into the wider circumstances of the incident remain ongoing.