Hero mum, 29, who was killed by car transporter as she pushed daughter out of its way
Rachael Martin was walking her two daughters to school when one of the girls shot out in front of a reversing truck
THIS is the first picture of a heroic mum who sacrificed herself by pushing her young daughter out the way of an oncoming truck.
Tragic Rachael Martin, 29, was walking her two daughters to school when one of the girls shot out in front of a reversing car transporter.
Rachael, from Stratford-upon-Avon, Warks., shoved her five-year-old daughter out of the way, but was killed when she was dragged under the wheels of the 7.5-tonne truck.
An air ambulance rushed the five-year-old, who is thought to have been riding a scooter in the road at the time of the crash, to Birmingham's Children's Hospital.
She suffered serious pelvic injuries and remains in a stable condition after the incident in Stratford-upon-Avon at 8.45am on Friday.
A seven-year-old girl who was also with the pair was not injured in the crash.
A spokesperson for Warwickshire Police said: "Rachael Martin died as a result of the collision with a car transporter in Western Road at about 8.45am.
"A five-year-old girl suffered serious pelvic injuries and was airlifted to Birmingham Children's Hospital where she is still undergoing treatment. Her condition remains stable.
"A seven-year-old girl who was walking with the woman and five-year-old was not injured in the collision.
"The family has asked to be left alone at this time as they come to terms with their loss."
Devastated friends and family took to Facebook to pay tribute to Rachael.
Family member Shane Martin wrote on the social media website: "Rest In Peace Rachael Martin, you will be sorely missed.
"From me and all the family, another one taken too soon but you saved the little one from the HGV.
"Sleep tight, and may you be looking down on all of us and the little ones, say hi to nanny Austin, great nan Queenie and great grandad for me x."
Friend Carla Dare shared a photo of a flower which Rachel had given her just weeks ago, with the caption: "Today I've been in complete utter shock by the tragic accident and sudden loss of a truly wonderful close friend of mine.
"Rachael you were a beautiful and amazing young lady who lived every moment for your gorgeous girls Leah and Keira."
Carla added: "Very few people know exactly what life has thrown at you over the past few years but you fought long and hard through many battles, never giving up you were always so strong.
"I am so going to miss you my beautiful friend RIP Angel."
Rachel Taylor said: "In a state of shock this morning I honestly can't believe my beautiful best friend Rachael Martin has truly gone, the bested friend, mother, sister and a hero, we will love and miss u always and forever xxxxx" (sic)
Witnesses said the woman was walking to a nearby primary school when she dashed into the road to save one of her daughters who was on a child's scooter.