The family of Kerry Coombes have spoken of their heartbreak after the 33-year-old was killed when a train struck her car at a level crossing in Lancashire, leaving an eight-year-old girl critically injured.
“Kerry was a loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum who meant everything to us,” they said in a statement released through British Transport Police. “She had the biggest heart, always put other people before herself and brought so much love, laughter and kindness into the lives of everyone who knew her. The loss of Kerry has left a hole in our family that can never be filled.”
“Kerry Coombes, 33, died after train hit car at level crossing; girl, 8, critically ill.”
Coombes, who worked as a social worker for Lancashire County Council, was pronounced dead at the scene after the collision at a level crossing in Hoghton shortly before 9am on Thursday 25 June. The 7.51am Colne to Preston service hit the car, which had two occupants: Coombes and the girl, who remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition.
Jacqui Old, executive director of education and children’s services at Lancashire County Council, described Coombes as a “highly respected and dedicated social worker” who “cared deeply about the children and families she supported”. She added: “She brought compassion, professionalism and a strong sense of commitment to her work, and made a real difference to people’s lives.”
A criminal investigation has been launched. Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell called it a “shocking and tragic incident” and said specialist officers would continue to support Coombes’s family. He appealed for witnesses to contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 152 of 25 June, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch confirmed it had sent a team of inspectors to the scene. No further details about the circumstances of the crash have been released, and Attwell urged the public not to speculate, saying updates would be provided in due course.