Overview
- The train struck a car at the Station Road level crossing in Hoghton on Thursday at about 8:50am, two people were inside, Kerry Coombes, 33, was pronounced dead at the scene and her eight-year-old daughter was taken to Alder Hey in a critical but stable condition.
- British Transport Police, led by Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell, launched a criminal investigation and have asked witnesses to contact them while urging the public not to speculate.
- Kerry’s family and colleagues paid tribute, describing her as a devoted mother and a highly regarded social worker, and Lancashire County Council said support is being offered to affected staff.
- A JustGiving page set up by Lostock Hall Juniors FC has raised more than £5,000 to help with funeral costs and the child’s recovery, and floral tributes have been left at the scene.
- Witnesses told reporters the train pushed the car a long distance but that account has not been verified, and investigators continue to gather evidence to establish exactly what happened.