Fatal Crash at Hoghton Level Crossing
An investigation into the fatal train crash that killed a mother and seriously injured her daughter at a level crossing in Lancashire has revealed that the barrier was up and its lights were not activated. Social worker Kerry Coombes, 33, died on June 25 in Hoghton, Lancashire, after the car she was driving was struck by a train. Her eight-year-old daughter was also left fighting for her life in the horror crash and was taken to hospital, where she was said to be in a critical but stable condition.
Investigation Findings
Investigators from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) have found that the barrier lights on the automated crossing on Station Road had not been activated in the moments before the fatal crash. They had not been lowered and did not sound the alarm, which is meant to alert pedestrians when a train approaches. The preliminary investigation also found that moments before the fatal collision, the train, the 7.51am Northern service from Colne to Preston, passed through a green signal, allowing it to proceed.
Tributes to Kerry Coombes
In a tribute following her death, Ms Coombes's heartbroken family said: '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.'
Lancashire County Council said Ms Coombes was a highly respected and dedicated social worker who cared deeply about the children she supported. Council leader Stephen Atkinson said: 'We are deeply saddened to learn that Kerry Coombes, a much-valued member of our Lancashire County Council family, has died following this tragic incident. This is a devastating loss, and its impact will be felt across the organisation and among the many people whose lives she touched. We are ensuring that support is available to colleagues who have been affected. Our thoughts are with Kerry’s family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time. We are also thinking of her daughter and all those affected by this tragic loss. We ask that their privacy is respected.'
Public Response and Further Investigations
Following Ms Coombes's death, more than 900 people have signed a petition calling for the level crossing to be closed. British Transport Police are also investigating. The RAIB said a full investigation into the circumstances of Ms Coombes's death will be held and published in due course. In a statement, the body added: 'Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and will include consideration of the actions of those involved and any factors that may have influenced them, any previous incidents at Hoghton level crossing, the management of risk at this crossing and any relevant underlying factors.'
