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Inquest Opens Into A35 Death of Emma Smith as Arrested Driver Remains on Bail

The coroner scheduled a 23 April 2026 review after a post-mortem recorded a provisional cause of multiple injuries.

Overview

  • Dorset Coroner’s Court opened proceedings on 30 October, confirming Emma Jayne Wray Smith, 37, died in the 22 October crash.
  • Police said the 35-year-old Poole man arrested on suspicion of driving offences was treated for minor injuries and remains on bail as inquiries continue.
  • The collision occurred at 12.05am near Askerswell and involved a white BMW and a grey BMW, with paramedics confirming Ms Smith died at the scene.
  • A 28-year-old man from Plymouth was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries as officers closed the A35 for several hours and appealed for witnesses.
  • Ms Smith, a mother of four from Bournemouth, was identified by photo comparison after a post-mortem at Holly Tree Lodge, and relatives have issued tributes.