The heartbroken family of a young woman has said their ‘hearts were shattered’ after she was killed in a head-on crash when the BMW she was travelling in collided with a Volkswagen during a high-speed police chase.
Taylor Jenkins, 24, from Edinburgh, died on March 1 when the white BMW she was a passenger in drove on the wrong side of the road on the A19 dual carriageway near Sunderland and crashed into another car.
Her family have now launched a fundraiser to help support her family with funeral costs and related expenses during the ‘devastating time’.
They described the loss of Ms Jenkins as an ‘unimaginable tragedy’ that ‘left an indescribable emptiness in all of our lives’.
The family wrote on GoFundMe: ‘On 1st March 2026, our hearts were shattered when our beautiful Taylor was tragically taken from us at just 24 years old.
‘A young woman with her whole life ahead of her, Taylor was light, laughter and unconditional love.
‘She had the kindest soul, the brightest smile, and an energy that filled every room she walked into. She was a devoted daughter, sister, partner, friend and colleague – and to know her was to love her.
‘As her family and loved ones try to process this unimaginable tragedy, we are determined to give Taylor the most beautiful and dignified farewell – one that truly reflects the love she gave so freely to others. To make this possible, we are asking for your help.
Taylor Jenkins, 24, from Edinburgh, died on March 1 when the BMW she was travelling in collided with a Volkswagen during a high-speed police chase
Her family described the loss of Ms Jenkins as an ‘unimaginable tragedy’ that ‘left an indescribable emptiness in all of our lives’
The white BMW she was a passenger in drove on the wrong side of the road on the A19 dual carriageway near Sunderland and crashed into another car
‘We are raising funds to support her family with funeral costs and related expenses during this devastating time.
‘Every single penny raised will go directly to her family, easing the financial burden and allowing them to focus on grieving and honouring Taylor’s life.
‘If Taylor ever touched your heart, made you smile, or was part of your life in any way, we kindly ask you to consider donating – no matter how small. Every contribution brings us closer to giving her the goodbye she deserves.’
Ms Jenkins’ family said on GoFundMe that the ‘support means more than words can express’.
They added: ‘Forever 24. Forever Loved. Rest peacefully, beautiful girl.’
The car Ms Jenkins was a passenger in was being pursued by police when it crashed.
She died at the scene of the crash, Northumbria Police said.
Another passenger, in his 20s, remained in hospital in a life-threatening condition.
A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving by Northumbria Police and has now appeared in court
The BMW collided with a VW Sharan, whose driver required hospital treatment. However, his injuries were not serious.
A 24-year-old man, Kane Farragher, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving by Northumbria Police and has appeared in court.
He was accused of driving in excess of 100mph on the wrong side of the road after failing to stop for a police car, South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard.
He was not asked to enter pleas and is due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on March 31.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, has begun an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
