The father of a boy who survived a horror crash that killed five people including his mum has described his son as “a little warrior”.
Andy Martin has spoken out for the first time since the tragedy on the M6 earlier this month. He said his seven-year-old son, Arran, has been “making progress every day” as he continues to fight for his life following the fatal collision in Cumbria on October 15.
Emergency services, 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. Crews attended but sadly, Arran’s mum, Jade McEnroe, 33, her partner Jaroslaw Rossa, 42, and his two children Filip, 15, and Dominic, seven, were pronounced dead at the scene.
Arran was airlifted to a hospital in Newcastle, where he continues to receive ongoing treatment. The driver of the Skoda, Richard Woods, 40, from Cambridgeshire, also died.
It is understood that Arran and his family had been driving home to Glasgow from Legoland when the tragedy took place.
Andy said: “The accident on the M6 has turned my life and the lives of all Arran’s family upside down. It is heartbreaking that Arran has lost his beloved mother and step-family.
“All who know Arran know he is a little warrior and he is making progress every day. The medical care he is receiving in the hospital is exceptional, and the support from friends, family, and even strangers has been truly uplifting.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone who knows and loves Arran, but we are all so proud of his resilience and the strides he is making. Thank you.”
Last week, the Record told how Andy has been staying by his son’ bedside “day and night” as the child remains in a coma. An online fundraiser was set up to support the family, with contributions to go towards Andy’s transport between Scotland and England and any adaptations of their home.
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 remembered as a “much-loved mummy” by her devastated loved ones.
In a statement released through Cumbria Police, Jade’s family said: “Our beloved daughter Jade, you are so loved, and we will miss you every day. You are a very much-loved mummy to Arran.”
Colleagues at The Gin Spa in Glasgow described Jade as a “devoted mother with the warmest smile”.
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.”
The mother of Filip and Dominic, Kamilla said her life “will never be the same again” following the deaths of both of her children.
She said: “We are heartbroken at the passing of our beloved angels – Filip and Dominic. Filip was very intelligent, sensitive and full of love. We will never forget his smile, open arms, and the words “tuli, tuli” (hugs, hugs). He was fascinated by computer games but also incredibly good at chess. He loved chemistry and dreamed of studying at the University of Glasgow.
“Dominic was always smiling, very resolute and sociable. He was extremely caring, always thinking of others first, and the first to help if someone was in trouble. Always surrounded by a group of friends of all ages. He loved dinosaurs and Pokémon, but most of all he loved penguins and dreamed of adopting one. Our lives will never be the same again.”
Filip and Dominic’s father, Jaroslaw, who worked at Wagamama in Silverburn shopping centre, was remembered as a “cherished chef and friend” by the chain’s CEO, Thomas Heier.
Mr 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 fundraiser here.
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.