An inquest opened at Omagh Courthouse into the death of Aaron Harkin, a 25-year-old father from Strabane, who died in a collision on Victoria Road outside Strabane on December 7, 2021.

Harkin's white van collided with a cement mixer truck weighing over 30 tonnes. The inquest heard testimony from his partner Chloe, the cement mixer driver, and forensic engineer Dr Emerson Callender of the PSNI.

Dr Callender stated that Harkin veered into the opposite lane on a gradual bend. Both drivers travelled about 10mph above the speed limit, but this did not contribute to the crash. Even at the limit, the outcome would likely have stayed the same.

No evidence showed Harkin used his phone or had alcohol or drugs in his system. A sat nav app was open on his phone, but it did not indicate distraction.

The cement mixer driver testified he recalled approaching Magheramason but nothing of the collision. He sustained severe facial injuries needing surgery and ongoing pain.

Police and ambulance statements detailed Harkin's injuries and the emergency response. Eyewitness accounts were read by the coroner's solicitor.

Harkin's family called for examination of the A5 road conditions, noting flooding in heavy rain on this busy route. They expressed hope the inquest highlights the need for the planned A5 upgrade to prevent future deaths and stated that it might have saved Harkin's life.

The coroner will issue findings after reviewing evidence, on a date to be set. She thanked Harkin's family for their conduct.