The mum who tragically died at an incident at a level crossing in Lancashire has been named.
On Thursday June 25 the 7.51am Colne to Preston service was involved in a collision with a car at a level crossing in Hoghton, Lancashire. Police were called to the scene following reports that a train had struck a car.
British Transport Police (BTP) has now confirmed the woman driving the car was Kerry Coombes, a 33-year-old woman, who was pronounced dead the scene. An eight-year-old girl, who was also traveling in the car, remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition.
The woman and the girl were the only occupants of the vehicle.
View 3 ImagesA child is fighting for their life in hospital after being rescued from a car struck by train(Image: Phil Taylor / SWNS)
A spokesperson for BTP said: “A 33 year-old woman who died following a tragic incident at a level crossing in Lancashire has been named as her family pay tribute to their much loved daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum.
“Police were called to a level crossing in Hoghton, Lancashire, following reports at 8.50am on Thursday (25 June) that a train had struck a car. Two people were in the car and sadly Kerry Coombes, a 33-year-old woman, was pronounced dead at the scene. An eight-year-old girl remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition.”
Her family paid tribute to Kerry today, saying:“Kerry was a loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum who meant everything to us. She had the biggest heart, always put other people before herself and brought so much love, laughter and kindness into the lives of everyone who knew her.
“The loss of Kerry has left a hole in our family that can never be filled. We are heartbroken and are trying to come to terms with what has happened.”
View 3 ImagesThe scene in Hoghton near Preston where a train hit a car.(Image: Phil Taylor / SWNS)
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell said: “This was a shocking and tragic incident, and our specialist officers will continue to support Kerry’s family and friends throughout this ordeal. Following our initial enquiries a criminal investigation into the incident has now been launched, and I would ask the public not to speculate, as further updates will be provided in due course.
“We continue to urge witnesses or anyone with information who is yet to speak to officers to get in touch by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 152 of 25 June. Information can also be given anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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The Rail Accident Investigation Branch says it has sent a team of inspectors to investigate the fatal collision. It wrote on X: “RAIB has sent a team of inspectors to Hoghton near Preston to the site of a level crossing accident. We are gathering evidence as part of a preliminary examination and a decision on whether or not an investigation will be launched will be taken in the coming days.”