THE inquest has opened following the death of a Hampshire teenager in a car crash.

Ethan Swallow, 19, of Old Bursledon, was driving a BMW on the A3(M) southbound when he died in a crash on January 4.

Following the crash his heartbroken family paid tribute to him and said: "Our beautiful son Ethan William Swallow passed away on the evening of January 4, 2018.

"He is survived by his father Mark, his mother Beverley, his sister Molly, and his brother Charles.

"Ethan loved life and adventure and he adored his family - he will be missed by his many friends and relatives for his fun-loving and caring attitude.

"Ethan always put others first in his life and built a wonderful reputation for himself.

"He will be remembered by all with love and much affection."

The inquest was adjourned with a full hearing on May 14.

Police want to speak to anyone who witnessed the crash or knows what happened.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: "If you saw what happened or if you saw a blue BMW 2 Series prior to the collision, please get in touch.

"If you have any information relating to this case, please call 101 quoting reference '44180005119', or contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111."