A 33-year-old mother, Kerry Coombes, died and an eight-year-old girl was critically injured when a train collided with their car at a level crossing in Hoghton, Lancashire, on Thursday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 8:50 a.m. on Station Road.

The vehicle is reported to have been pushed at least 100 yards down the track after the impact. Ms. Coombes was pronounced dead at the scene. The injured girl was transported to Alder Hey Children's Hospital and remains in critical condition.

British Transport Police confirmed on Friday evening that they have launched a criminal investigation into the cause of the crash. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Attwell stated, "This was a shocking and tragic incident, and our specialist officers will continue to support Kerry's family and friends throughout this ordeal." He urged the public not to speculate and to contact police with any information by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 152 of June 25. Anonymous tips can also be made to Crimestoppers.

Ms. Coombes was a social worker described by her family as a "loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum" with a "biggest heart" who "always put other people before herself." Lancashire County Council characterized her as a "highly respected and dedicated" professional who "cared deeply about the children she supported" and "made a real difference to people's lives."

Police and ambulance crews at the level crossing today responding to the fatal incident

Emergency services, including ambulance crews, fire services, and police, responded to the scene. A spokesperson for North West Ambulance Service confirmed that several clinical teams attended, including a hazardous area response team and two air ambulances. No passengers on the train required medical treatment.

Fire and ambulance crews attended along with officers from British Transport Police and South Ribble Police

A local resident, Michael Cryer, who was driving past at approximately 9 a.m., noted that the barriers at the level crossing do not fully cover the road, potentially allowing vehicles to access the track. He stated that the barrier "only covers your side of the road, so you could drive around it and get onto the track or zig-zag through."