Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Inquest Finds MDMA Impairment Led to Fatal A11 Crash After Halloween Night Out

The coroner recorded a joint conclusion for Sara Pancas following evidence of extreme MDMA levels in her system.

Overview

  • The Mini struck a kerb near the Thickthorn Roundabout shortly after 5am on November 3, 2024, then hit a tree at an estimated 47mph.
  • Passenger Sara Ribeiro, 29, died at the scene, and driver Sara Pancas, 38, died two days later from traumatic brain injuries at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
  • Toxicology found 140 micrograms of MDMA per litre of blood in Pancas, around fourteen times the UK driving limit, with cannabis also detected.
  • Norfolk Constabulary’s forensic investigator said drug impairment was the most plausible explanation for the collision based on the evidence presented.
  • Witness testimony stated Pancas had been nervous about driving on the left and did not want to drive that night; two other passengers were seriously injured, including one not wearing a seatbelt.