Level crossing's warnings 'failed before fatal crash'

Warning systems did not activate at a level crossing where a woman was killed when her car was struck by a train, according to preliminary evidence from rail accident investigators.

Kerry Coombes, 33, died in the collision on Station Road in Hoghton, Lancashire, at 08:50 BST on 25 June.

A girl, aged 8, remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital, British Transport Police said.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch's (RAIB) said in its initial report the train had passed a green signal as it approached but preliminary evidence suggested the crossing's traffic lights and warning alarm had not activated, and barriers were still raised. Network Rail said it was "fully cooperating".

The RAIB said its independent investigation would determine the sequence of events that led to the incident, including "the actions of those involved and any factors that may have influenced them", as well as previous incidents and the management of risk at the crossing.

The incident involved Northern Trains' 07:51 BST Colne to Preston service.

No passengers or staff were injured.

Coombes' "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."

Chris Wright, Network Rail's North West route director, said: "We are deeply sorry that this happened on our railway infrastructure, and for the devastating impact it has had on Kerry Coombes' family and loved ones.

"Our thoughts remain with them, and with her daughter, who remains in hospital."

He added: "The initial findings published by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) today are an important step in helping us understand what happened and why.

"In addition to continuing our own investigation, we are also fully cooperating with RAIB and the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and will carefully consider any findings as they emerge and act swiftly on lessons learned."

He said there had been "no previous incidents of this nature at Hoghton level crossing", and that Network Rail had carried out "several safety checks and reviews" before reopening the crossing.

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