A little boy who survived a horror crash on the M6 that killed his mum remains in a coma in hospital as his father is said to be staying by his bedside “day and night”.
Arran Martin, 7, continues to fight for his life following the collision in Cumbria on Tuesday, October 15. Emergency crews, including two air ambulances, raced to the incident northbound just past Tebay services after receiving reports of a head-on crash involving a Skoda and a Toyota.
Arran was airlifted to hospital while his mum, Jade McEnroe, 33, her partner Jaroslaw Rossa, 42, and his two children Filip, 15, and Dominic, seven, were pronounced dead at the scene. It is understood the family had been driving home to Glasgow in the Toyota from Legoland when the tragedy took place.
The driver of the Skoda, a 40-year-old man from Cambridgeshire, also died. An online fundraiser has since been set up to support Arran and his father, Andy, who is said to be staying by his child’s side “day and night”.
Funds raised will go towards the dad’s transport between Scotland and England while Arran receives treatment at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.
A statement on the GoFundMe reads: “This fund is specifically for Arran, who by miracle, is the only survivor of this crash and to help his dad out during this time. As Arran bravely fights through his recovery, we want to ensure his dad can remain by his side every day without the added worry of financial pressures.
“People that know Arran know of his love for horror. He loves to scare people with his Chucky doll and horror stories but at the same time he likes to bring Woody and Buzz to his cold water dips just in case any of the adults get into some trouble in the water and he can help save the day with them.
“Every donation, no matter the size will help Andy during this period of recovery with Arran, covering expenses such as transportation to and from hospital if needed. But most of all, create a comfortable, healing space for Arran by renovating his room and any modifications to ensure his comfort and well-being when he returns home.
“As of today, Arran remains in a coma although he is doing better. It is early days but we know that this accident will be life-changing for him and Andy and every penny raised along with your thoughts and prayers are met with gratitude. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support at this time.”
Meanwhile, Arran’s mum, Jade, was described as a “devoted mother with the warmest smile” by her devastated work colleagues at The Gin Spa in Glasgow last week.
Writing online, management at the spa said: “It’s with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I must share the news of the death of our much-loved therapist, Jade McEnroe. Jade passed away on Tuesday following a tragic car accident.
“We will all miss her dearly as she was not only our co-worker but our friend who brightened every day with the warmest smile. She was the kindest soul and a devoted mother, and her devastating loss will undoubtedly be felt by many people. Our thoughts are with Jade’s family.”
Jaroslaw, who worked at Wagamama in Silverburn shopping centre, was remembered as a “cherished chef and friend” by the chain’s CEO, Thomas Heier.
Speaking to the BBC on Thursday, Heier said: “His warmth, dedication and kindness are the characteristics of Jaroslaw that will stay with the team long after his passing. We send our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family, for which we know he was deeply devoted to. Jaroslaw, you will live in our hearts and minds forever.”
Cumbria Police say inquiries into the fatal collision are ongoing. The force has urged any witnesses or those with information to come forward.
A spokesperson for Cumbria Police said: “We are appealing for witnesses to the fatal collision. Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at https://orlo.uk/IzuxI, quoting incident number 146 of October 15 2024. You can also phone on 101. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
Donate to the online fundraiser here.
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