Police are investigating whether a 58-year-old woman died in Richmond due to careless driving by a van driver, a court heard today.

An inquest into the death of Imelda Seymour was opened at West London Coroners' Court this morning (Tuesday, April 13).

Mrs Seymour, a married teacher, was on her bicycle when she was involved in a collision with a van driver on the A316 in Richmond on Tuesday, March 30.

The road, which links the A4 at Chiswick with the M3 at Sunbury, was closed in both directions between Richmond and Twickenham for five hours.

Senior coroner Chinyere Inyama said Mrs Seymour suffered "serious" and multiple injuries and was taken to St Mary's Hospital in Paddington.

"She was intubated, ventilated and stabilised at the scene by paramedics," Mr Inyama told the inquest.

"At hospital she was resuscitated in accident and emergency and then taken to the intensive care unit."

Mr Inyama said she "continued to deteriorate" as she was treated in hospital and a decision was taken between medical teams and the family to withdraw life support.

Loving tributes

Flowers and heartfelt messages in cards have been left at the collision site near Richmond Athletic Ground.

One tribute reads: "Mel, you were the best mum, friend, wife, sister and teacher. You always made your home so welcoming to me."

Another says: "Mel, you were such a wonderful lady. We promise to look after your girl. Lots of love."

Concluding the inquest, Mr Inyama said: "There's a current investigation for death by careless driving.

"The serious collision investigation unit will compile a thorough report. They will then pass it onto the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) to see what charges, if any, to level against the driver of the van."

The inquest, which heard that Mrs Seymour was born in Bristol and lived in Whitton, was adjourned until March 31 2022.

Witness appeal

A spokesperson for the Met Police today said the investigation continues and officers are still appealing for information and witnesses.

The driver stopped at the scene, police said. Anyone who saw the collision who has not yet spoken to officers, or who has dashcam footage which may assist the investigation, is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 020 8543 5157.

You can also call 101 quoting CAD 5393/30Mar or tweet @MetCC.

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