Mum killed and daughter fighting for life after being hit by a runaway tractor trailer

A MUM has been killed and a daughter is fighting for her life after their car was struck by a runaway trailer.

Gran-of-two Carol Broxholme, 59, was pronounced dead at the scene of the horror smash.

Her daughter Sherryann Broxholme, 25, suffered serious head injuries and was rushed to hospital.

Sherryann, who is autistic and was cared for by her mother, was removed from the car by firefighters and remains in a critical condition.

Two teenagers – a 16-year-old and a 19-year-old – have been arrested in connection with the incident.

The car Carol and Sherryann were travelling in was hit by a tractor trailer that came loose in Taunton, Somerset, shortly before 7pm on Thursday.

Writing online, Carol’s brother John Baker said: “It is with the greatest sadness that I have received the news that my lovely young sister, Carol Broxholme, was tragically killed this evening in a road traffic accident.

“In the same accident her daughter, Sherryann, has received massive injuries and the family and friends are with her at this time.

“As a sister Carol was an inspiration to the rest of the family and her broad smile will forever be in my mind. She was kindness personified.

“You were taken far too young sis and using this medium of Facebook Is my only outlet as I sit alone with waves and waves of memories of you flying through my brain, bringing me to tears and smiles in equal measure.

“You had your hardships while you were growing up but grow up you did and left home to raise a family who are a testament to your good character.

“Rest In Peace dear sister, I love you.”

In a second post, he added: “I have heard of the power of prayer and if it works then all your prayers for Sherryann will help her pull through this terrible tragedy.

“Sherryann is out of surgery and has a fractured skull and a broken bone in her neck.

“She is still critically ill and I would like you all to keep praying.

“Thanks for all your kind words Facebookers, the family hears them.”

Carol’s son, Luke Broxholme, of Taunton, Somerset, wrote: “As most people are aware there was a road traffic accident on Bridgwater road last night.

“Unfortunately and tragically our mum was killed in this our sister is at Southmead Hospital in a critical but stable condition.

“Obviously we are completely devastated and heart broken so RIP I love you.”

An investigation has now been launched by police.

The teenagers who were arrested have been bailed until April 11, an Avon and Somerset Police spokesman confirmed.

Scores of tributes have been paid to “inspiring” and “kind” Carol on social media.

Shell Billettn said: “RIP. Thoughts go out to the family” while Valerie May posted: “Thoughts with all involved life is so precious.”

Steve Webb said: “Terrible news so sad.”

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: “We were called at 6.54pm following a collision between a car and a tractor towing a trailer on Bridgwater Road.

“The trailer became detached from the tractor and struck the car.

“A woman has sadly died at the scene while another has been taken to Southmead Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

“Officers from the collision investigation unit are at the scene and the road is expected to be closed for some time while our inquiries are carried out.”

Firefighters from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were also called to the scene.

A spokesman said: “Three fire engines and a rescue tender from Taunton were sent to a report of a road traffic collision at Bridgwater Road.

“On arrival the crews confirmed that this was a two vehicle road traffic collision involving a motor vehicle and a tractor/trailer unit.

“Ambulance crews and police were already in attendance.

“Crews released a casualty from within the vehicle using a rapid extrication technique.

“They were then left in the care of Ambulance crews while Fire crews made the vehicles safe and assisted Police.”