Kerry Coombes died at the scene of the incident near Preston, while her eight-year-old daughter, who was a passenger in the car, remains in hospital14:25, 16 Jul 2026A mum was tragically killed and her daughter left seriously injured after their car was struck by a train due to an error with the level crossing lights.‌Kerry Coombes, 33, was driving with her eight-year-old daughter when her car was struck by a train at Houghton level crossing near Preston on June 25. Her daughter, who suffered serious injuries in the collision, was rushed to hospital where is said to be in a "critical but stable condition."‌Investigators from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) later said that evidence suggested the automated barriers at the level crossing "had not been activated" prior to the crash, meaning that Ms Coombes had no way of knowing the train was approaching.‌The site's road traffic lights and audible alarm for pedestrians were also not activated, according to reports.The train, which was the 7.51am Northern service from Colne to Preston, passed a green signal as it neared the crossing, meaning it was permitted to proceed. The Houghton level crossing has half-barriers on both sides to block the left side of the road.The RAIB said its investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the crash, and consider factors such as what may have influenced the actions of those involved and the management of risk at the crossing.‌Chris Wright, North West route director for Network Rail, which manages Britain's level crossings, 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. 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 co-operating 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. There have been no previous incidents of this nature at Houghton level crossing, and we have carried out several safety checks and reviews to ensure that the crossing was safe to reopen."Article continues belowThe family of Ms Coombes, who worked as a social worker, described her as someone who had "the biggest heart". In a tribute, they 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".