The family of Kerry Coombes, the 33-year-old woman who died when a train collided with her vehicle on a level crossing in Hoghton, Lancashire, have paid tribute to a 'loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum'.
Incident Details
Ms Coombes died on Thursday, June 25, following the collision on Station Road in Hoghton at 8:50 am. A major emergency response was triggered after reports that a train had struck a vehicle. British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed two people were in the vehicle; Ms Coombes was pronounced dead at the scene. Her eight-year-old daughter remains hospitalised in a 'critical but stable condition'.
The incident involved the 7:51 am Northern Trains service from Colne to Preston.
Family Tribute
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.'
Council and Colleagues Pay Respects
Lancashire County Council confirmed Ms Coombes was a 'highly respected and dedicated' social worker. County Councillor Stephen Atkinson, leader of the council, 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.'
Jacqui Old, executive director of education and children’s services at the council, added: 'Kerry was a highly respected and dedicated social worker who cared deeply about the children and families she supported. She brought compassion, professionalism and a strong sense of commitment to her work, and made a real difference to people’s lives. She was a valued member of the team and will be greatly missed by her colleagues and by all those who knew her.'
Criminal Investigation Launched
BTP are leading the investigation and have launched a criminal probe, though its nature is not yet clear. 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.'
