Overview

• Senior coroner Andrew Hetherington recorded a verdict of accident with the medical cause given as immersion in water.
• Toxicology measured 215mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, which the pathologist said would impair coordination and judgment but was not the direct cause of death.
• Police evidence indicated the Toyota Hilux entered Abberwick Ford at speed and was found in reverse, suggesting an attempted retreat before it was swept downstream.
• Storm Darragh floodwaters submerged six‑foot depth markers and created a flat‑road illusion at the ford, hindering a clear assessment of the crossing.
• The coroner said he will write to Northumberland County Council and seek police input on signage and potential safety measures after questions about barriers were raised.