The traffic lights at a Lancashire level crossing where a mum was killed when a train hit her car ‘had not been activated’, investigators have revealed.
Social worker Kerry Coombes, 33, died on June 25 following the crash in Hoghton, Lancs. Her eight-year-old daughter was also seriously injured in the collision and taken to hospital where she was said to be a ‘critical but stable condition’.
Now, it’s emerged that the barriers on the automated crossing on Station Road hadn’t been lowered and an alarm which is meant to alert pedestrians when a train approaches didn’t sound. A preliminary investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch also found that moments before the fatal collision the train, the 7.51am Northern service from Colne to Preston passed through a green signal, allowing it to proceed.
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In a tribute following her death, Ms Coombes’s ‘heartbroken’ family 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.”
Lancashire County Council said Ms Coombes was a ‘highly respected and dedicated’ social worker who ‘cared deeply about the children she supported’, Lancs Live reported.
Council leader Stephen Atkinson 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.”
Following Ms Coombes’s death more than 900 people have signed a petition calling for the level crossing to be closed. British Transport Police are also investigating.
A full investigation into the circumstances of Ms Coombes’s death will now be held and published in due course, the RAIB said. In a statement the body added: “Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and will include consideration of the actions of those involved and any factors that may have influenced them, any previous incidents at Hoghton level crossing, the management of risk at this crossing and any relevant underlying factors.”