Crossing warnings not activated before fatal train crash near Preston
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has released its first findings into a fatal crash at Hoghton level crossing
Last updated 12 hours ago
Investigators say the warning lights, audible alarm and barriers at a level crossing near Preston were not activated before a train struck a car in a crash that killed a woman.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has published its first findings into the collision at Hoghton level crossing on 25 June 2026.
The driver of the car, Kerry Coombes, 33, died at the scene.
An eight-year-old child in the car suffered serious injuries, and remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital.
Nobody on the train, a Northern passenger service from Colne to Preston, was hurt.
Preliminary findings
The RAIB says the train had been given a green 'proceed' signal as it approached the crossing.
Its preliminary investigation found the road traffic lights and audible warning alarm had not activated, and the half-barriers were raised before the collision.
What happens next?
The investigation will next look at the sequence of events leading up to the crash, including the actions of those involved and whether there had been any previous incidents at the crossing.
It will also look at how the risks at Hoghton level crossing were managed and whether there were any relevant underlying factors.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch says it will publish a full report, including any safety recommendations, once the investigation has finished.