Family pays tribute to 'loving' woman killed in Lancashire level crossing collision
Kerry Coombes, 33, died at the scene. An eight year old girl remains in hospital
Last updated 6 hours ago
A woman who died following a collision at a level crossing in Lancashire has been named, as her family pay tribute to her.
Kerry Coombes, 33, was travelling in a car with an eight-year-old girl when the vehicle was struck by a train on a level crossing in Hoghton on Thursday (25 June).
The girl remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition.
Kerry's family have issued a tribute which said: “Kerry was a loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum who meant everything to us. 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. We are heartbroken and are trying to come to terms with what has happened.”
Kerry worked in social care at Lancashire County Council. The authority has also released a tribute today.
County Councillor Stephen Atkinson, Leader of Lancashire County Council, said:
“We are deeply saddened to learn that Kerry Coombes, a much-valued member of our Lancashire County Council family, has died following this tragic incident.
"This is a devastating loss, and its impact will be felt across the organisation and among the many people whose lives she touched. We are ensuring that support is available to colleagues who have been affected.
"Our thoughts are with Kerry’s family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
"We are also thinking of her daughter and all those affected by this tragic loss.
"We ask that their privacy is respected.”La
County Councillor Stephen Atkinson, Leader of Lancashire County Council, said:
“We are deeply saddened to learn that Kerry Coombes, a much-valued member of our Lancashire County Council family, has died following this tragic incident.
"This is a devastating loss, and its impact will be felt across the organisation and among the many people whose lives she touched. We are ensuring that support is available to colleagues who have been affected.
"Our thoughts are with Kerry’s family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
"We are also thinking of her daughter and all those affected by this tragic loss.
"We ask that their privacy is respected.”
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell said: "This was a shocking and tragic incident, and our specialist officers will continue to support Kerry's family and friends throughout this ordeal.
"Following our initial enquiries a criminal investigation into the incident has now been launched, and I would ask the public not to speculate on the incident, as further updates will be provided in due course.
"We continue to urge witnesses or anyone with information who is yet to speak to officers to get in touch by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 152 of 25 June.
"Information can also be given anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
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