DETECTIVES are investigating the circumstances behind a crash which killed 17-year-old Denny Richardson on Canvey.

An inquest into his tragic death opened today.

Denny died following a crash in Leigh Road on May 2.

Essex Coroner’s Court heard Denny was riding on a motorcycle when he was involved in a crash with a car reversing from a driveway.

Police and paramedics attended the scene but Denny was pronounced dead at 9.10pm on the day of the crash.

Another teenager was also seriously injured and is recovering.

Results of a post mortem examination, by Dr Fitzpatrick Swallows at Southend Hospital, have not yet been released.

Senior Essex Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray adjourned the inquest until the police investigation has concluded.

She said: “I am opening the inquest touching upon the death of Denny Paul Richardson and I am not setting a date for this matter because I am being told there may be a prosecution.

“Obviously I will need to be kept informed about any developments.”

Denny’s death sparked an outpouring of emotions on the island, with a vigil being held and memorials set up.

Shortly after his death, Denny’s mother, Sam Ramplin, told the Echo: “He was fearless, absolutely fearless, he had so much pride.

“He loved animals, through his life he would rescue so many and help them.

“We had two German Shepherds before, and he was so caring to them.

“It was a heart of gold he had. He would always be asking if I needed help, getting petrol money, always making sure I was okay.

“We were in the process of moving to Spain. He would’ve been near his family, and probably would have gone into an apprenticeship in mechanics.”