A young dad who was a backseat passenger in a car suffered a fatal head injury when it crashed into a wall.

Owen Tagg was in a red Volkswagen Polo when the collision occured in Cornwall Road, Deal, in the early hours of Sunday, October 9.

An inquest into his death was opened at County Hall in Maidstone on Friday.

The coroner heard the 21-year-old was in one of the back seats of the car as it travelled towards Hamilton Road, when it hit a railway bridge at 2.30am.

The dad of one, from the Aylesham area, sustained a fatal head injury and was confirmed dead at the scene.

Two men also sustained injuries and were taken to hospital, and a woman needed medical treatment for minor injuries.

Last week, police revealed a 25-year-old from Dover had been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving and possession of class A and B drugs. He has since been bailed with conditions, until Thursday, November 10.

Tributes have been paid by friends and family of Mr Tagg following his death.

Flowers were left near where he died, and messages have been posted online, with a former colleague saying they had “nothing but admiration for him”.

Mr Tagg’s partner, Emy May, said: “Never thought in a million years I’d be writing this.

“Heaven took another angel today. You was my soulmate and more.

“I really wish you’re at peace watching over us all. I can’t describe the pain I’m feeling.

“Waiting for you to coming bouncing through the door with your big smile.

“What I would do to see you one last time.

“Sleep tight my angel. Won’t be long before I’m with you. Love you forever and always.”

Officers continue to appeal for anyone who saw the car before the collision, or who has private CCTV or dashcam footage that might assist to come forward.

Anyone with information should call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) appeal line on 01622 798 538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting KH/KA/112/22.