TWO young people died from inhaling exhaust fumes pumped inside the souped up car they were sat in, an inquest heard.

Trainee engineer Thomas Putt, 20, from Leigh and shop assistant Nikki Willis, 23, from Chelmsford, were both found dead in a car in Fox Crescent, Chelmsford, on the morning of December 5.

Det Insp Rob Kirby described to the inquest how a “unique series of events” came together to cause the tragic double death.

He explained: “There was a gap between the engine and the exhaust system that enabled emissions to escape into the engine area of the vehicle.

“This was compounded by the fact that the car had its catalytic converter removed.

“For cosmetic reasons, vents had been cut into the bonnet which can also aid cooling of the engine. These vents were in a place that gave the fumes the ideal place to escape.”

Det Insp Kirby went on to explain that because the weather was close to freezing, the car’s heating system was on and the induction vents - designed to draw air into the car - were found to have pumped the escaped toxic fumes inside instead, leading to a fatal level of carbon monoxide quickly gathering within the vehicle.

When the vehicle was examined by forensic experts, it was discovered to have a carbon monoxide emissions level 1,000 times higher than what a factory model would emit.

A witness, who lives in Fox Crescent, told police how he had noted the car’s engine was running at 4am and was still running when he left for the shops at 10.30am, prompting him to inspect the vehicle and call 999. 

An investigation of the scene found vomit directly outside the driver’s door as well as in front of Nikki’s house.

Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said the deaths were accidental and urged police and Ford UK to work with the families and raise awareness of the risks of modifying vehicles.

Speaking after the hearing, Detective Inspector Rob Kirby said: "It is fair to say there was a unique series of events that came together to led to this tragic incident to take place.

"The combination of the modifications, the cold, still weather and the engine running whilst the car was stationary, all contributed to what happened that night.

"When modified, vehicles can produce significant quantities of carbon monoxide. This car was found to emit carbon monoxide levels 1,000 times higher than a factory standard identical vehicle.

"There are inherent dangers in modifying vehicles. 

"Tom was not inexperienced, so even if you think you know what you are doing, this can still lead to unintended consequences. 

"If you have carried out modifications on your vehicle, I urge you to satisfy yourself that these modifications are legal, and more importantly, safe, by consulting a qualified mechanic. 

"Essex Police along with Tom and Nikki’s families want to ensure a tragic event like this can never happen again. Please have your vehicle checked. "