MUM KILLED AND DAUGHTER INJURED IN TRAIN CRASH AT LEVEL CROSSING

Kerry Coombes died on 25 June after a train struck her car at a level crossing in Hoghton, Lancashire. Her eight-year-old daughter was seriously injured in the collision and was taken to hospital in what was described as a critical but stable condition. Investigators from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch found that the barrier lights on the automated crossing on Station Road had not been activated at the time of the crash and remained raised in the moments before impact.

The lights had not been lowered and the alarm that alerts pedestrians and motorists to an approaching train did not sound, according to reports. The 7.51am Northern service from Colne to Preston passed through a green signal moments before the collision, allowing the train to proceed. Ms Coombes worked as a social worker for Lancashire County Council, where she was described by council leadership as a dedicated professional who cared deeply about the children she supported.

In a statement, Ms Coombes's family said she was a loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mother whose loss had left a hole in the family that could never be filled. Lancashire County Council leader Stephen Atkinson described her as a much-valued member of staff whose death represented a devastating loss. The authority said it was providing support to colleagues affected by the incident and extended its thoughts to Ms Coombes's family, friends and all those impacted by the crash.