A community is in mourning today after a 'beautiful and wonderful' young mother was killed in a horrific multi-vehicle crash on the M62 during Storm Isha's fierce winds.
Jessica Baker, a 25-year-old teaching assistant from Chester, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene of the collision between junctions 10 and 11 for Birchwood and Risley in Cheshire on Sunday evening.
The devastating incident occurred as the storm, which had prompted a rare Amber weather warning from the Met Office, battered the UK with gusts of wind reaching nearly 100mph in some areas.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Emergency services, including Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, rushed to the scene following reports of a serious collision involving multiple vehicles. Despite their best efforts, Jessica's life could not be saved.
A man in his 30s was also taken to the hospital with serious injuries and remains in a stable condition. The north-westbound carriageway was closed for several hours as police investigated the circumstances of the tragic crash.
A Life Cut Short
Jessica's heartbroken family has been informed and is receiving support from specially trained officers. In a moving tribute, her family described her as a wonderful person.
"Jessica was a beautiful, wonderful daughter and sister. We are devastated by her loss," the family statement read.
Sergeant Andrew Dennison of Cheshire Police's Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit appealed for witnesses to come forward to help piece together the events leading to the tragedy.
Storm Isha's Deadly Impact
The crash highlights the deadly dangers of driving in severe weather conditions. Storm Isha has been blamed for widespread disruption and several fatalities across the UK and Ireland.
Motorists are being urged to exercise extreme caution and to heed weather warnings after this tragic event.
