Family of teen killed in car crash says ‘world will never be the same’

Oliver Pritchard-Jones | Freelance news reporter Published September 20, 2026 2:25pm Updated September 20, 2026 2:25pm Acacia Barnett’s family paid a moving tribute to the teenager after her death earlier this month (Picture: Thames Valley Police) The devastated family of an 18-year-old woman who was killed in a car crash have said their ‘world will never be the same’. Acacia Barnett died after the red Ford Fiesta she was a passenger in veered off the road and hit a tree in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, on September 3. A 19-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving at the time and has since been bailed. In a moving tribute released this week, Acacia’s family remembered their ‘very much loved’ daughter, sister and granddaughter. ‘As a family we are beyond heartbroken at the tragic loss of our beautiful Acacia,’ they said. Sign up for all of the latest stories Start your day informed with Metro's News Updates newsletter or get Breaking News alerts the moment it happens. ‘Our world will never be the same again. My daughter, my best friend, my “Bubs”. I will love you and miss you forever.’ They said Acacia loved to read and build Lego and had a lifelong love of nature and animals, especially reptiles. A 19-year-old woman has been arrested and bailed over the crash, which police continue to investigate (Picture: Google Maps) This led to her enrolling onto a course in animal management at the Berkshire College of Agriculture, which she recently completed. She then began working two part-time jobs which ‘really helped her confidence grow’, they added. ‘I watched her flourish from a child who struggled socially to a young woman who would talk to anyone,’ the tribute continued. ‘From the moment she was born, she became my world. Forever by my side and always making me laugh with her amazing sense of humour.’ The tribute went on to thank their family, friends and Acacia’s friends ‘for the love and support’ they received after her death. Three other people travelling in the car suffered minor injuries during the crash, which took place near the junction of Horns Lane and Lane End Road, according to Thames Valley Police. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing. Thames Valley Police previously urged anyone with information to come forward. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page. Arrow MORE: UberEats driver was ‘showing off’ in car when he killed student, 21, in crash Arrow MORE: Royal Navy pilot killed in helicopter crash after commander accidentally switched off engines Arrow MORE: Crossbow killer ‘suing for £10,000’ over prison officer’s ‘hurty words’ Breaking News Never miss the biggest stories with breaking news alerts in your inbox.