Lorry Driver Arrested After Devoted Mother Killed in A55 Tunnel Crash
A 57-year-old lorry driver has been arrested following a devastating tunnel collision on the A55 in North Wales, which claimed the life of a devoted mother and grandmother and left three of her family members fighting for their lives in critical care.
Tragic Loss of a Beloved Care Worker
Jennifer Anne Brown, a 44-year-old care worker from Newborough on Anglesey, was pronounced dead at the scene after the collision involving her car and a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) in the Conwy Tunnel. Described by colleagues and loved ones as having a warm smile that could light up any room, Ms Brown had worked at the Glan Rhos Nursing Home in north-west Wales for over two decades, where she was affectionately known as the queen.
In a heartfelt tribute, the nursing home stated: Jenny, affectionately known to everyone here as 'Queen', has been a valued member of staff at Glan Rhos for over 20 years. Not just a member of staff, she was family. She was remembered as a compassionate individual who touched countless lives throughout her career.
Family Members in Critical Condition
The tragedy has extended beyond the loss of Ms Brown, with three other family members who were travelling in the same car hospitalised with serious injuries. Two individuals were airlifted by air ambulance to hospitals in Stoke and Aintree, while a third was taken by road ambulance to Aintree. All are reported to be in a critical condition, fighting for their lives in intensive care units.
A fundraising page set up to support the family, particularly Ms Brown's 20-year-old daughter Keisha, has already raised more than £14,000. The page highlights the sudden and profound impact of the accident, noting that Keisha has lost her beloved mother and now faces an uncertain future as her loved ones battle to recover.
Police Investigation and Arrest
North Wales Police responded to the incident at around midday on Thursday, January 29, on the A55 westbound at J17 in Conwy Morfa. A spokesperson confirmed that a 57-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He has since been released on police bail pending further investigations.
Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan expressed his deepest condolences to the family and urged witnesses or anyone with dash-cam footage to come forward. The North Wales Police Forensic Collision Investigation Unit is continuing its work at the scene to determine the exact circumstances of the crash.
Road Closures and Community Response
Following the collision, the westbound carriageway of the A55 was partially closed, causing significant disruption. Traffic management measures were implemented, with a single lane reopened to allow flow from the Conwy Tunnel exiting at J17 Conwy Morfa off-slip and re-joining via the on-slip.
The local community has been left reeling by the loss of Ms Brown, described as a bright, gentle presence. Colleagues and friends have rallied to support the grieving family, emphasising her role as a cherished member of both her workplace and the wider Anglesey community.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are focusing on gathering evidence to understand the factors leading to this tragic event, while the family and community mourn the loss of a woman whose kindness and smile touched so many.
