Reality television personality Paddy Doherty, known for appearances on Big Fat Gypsy Wedding and Big Brother, has publicly mourned the tragic deaths of his cousin and a three-year-old girl following a devastating road accident in Kent. The victims have been identified as Francie Connors and his young daughter, Ka Connors, who were killed when a tipper truck collided with their pony and trap.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The incident occurred on the A228 near Tonbridge at approximately 6:30 pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. According to a social media post by Doherty, the family's cart was traveling along the road when it was struck from behind by a white DAF tipper truck heading in the same direction. Francie Connors was pronounced dead at the scene alongside the family's pony, while three-year-old Ka was rushed to the hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries.
Family Members and Ongoing Investigation
Rita Connors, the mother of Ka and wife of Francie, remains in critical condition as she fights for her life in the hospital. She is also a mother to three sons and underwent emergency brain surgery following the crash. Kent Police have confirmed that the driver of the tipper truck, a 29-year-old man from Kent, has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in police custody as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Emotional Tributes from Paddy Doherty
In a series of emotional Facebook videos, a devastated Doherty described the fatal collision as a 'travesty', revealing the profound heartbreak of losing his relatives in what he called a 'split blink'. He detailed the moment a 'juggernaut' struck the family's cart, claiming the lives of Francie Connors, his daughter Ka, and their horse. Doherty paid a moving tribute to three-year-old Ka, describing her as a 'little princess'.
While mourning the loss of the 'young boy and his daughter', Doherty turned his focus to Rita Connors, expressing hope for her recovery. He added: 'I pray to God that he will leave the mother behind.' Tributes have flooded in for Francie and Ka across social media, with users expressing condolences and prayers for the family.
Police Statement and Appeal for Witnesses
In an official statement, Kent Police said: 'Witnesses and dashcam footage are sought by officers investigating a fatal collision in East Peckham near Tonbridge. The incident happened on the A228 Boyle Way, between the junctions of Bandridges Road and Hale Street, at 6.25pm on Wednesday 1 April 2026. A white DAF tipper truck was being driven on the southbound carriageway when it was involved in a collision with a pony and trap travelling in the same direction.'
The statement continued: 'Patrols, South East Coast Ambulance Service and Kent Fire and Rescue Service attended and a man in his 30s, who was in the trap, was confirmed deceased at the scene. A woman and young girl who had also been riding in the trap were taken to hospital. The young girl was confirmed deceased at hospital and the woman remains in a critical condition. The pony also died at the scene. The driver of the tipper, a 29-year-old man from Kent, was arrested in connection with the incident and was taken into custody.'
Community Response and Ongoing Mourning
As the investigation into the white DAF tipper truck continues, Doherty expressed his hope that the police will 'find out what's what' regarding the circumstances of the crash. Social media users have shared heartfelt messages, with one saying: 'So so sad, can't ever imagine what sort of pain you have in your hearts right now. Please god help this mummy pull through to good health. All in my prayers.' Another added: 'Bless her poor soul, beautiful angel child. What a tragedy. I hope the police get to the bottom of it. And wishes and prayers to her mumma.'
Doherty concluded his tributes by sharing photos of the family, honouring the lives lost in the Kent tragedy. The community remains in shock as they await further updates on Rita Connors' condition and the outcome of the police investigation into this heartbreaking incident.
