The heartbroken family of a parent and son who died in a horrific car crash just hours before Christmas have told of their devastation. Emergengy services rushed to the scene in Oldham, Greater Manchester, on December 23 after reports of a collision on Ripponden Road.
Greater Manchester Police has now released the names of the victims, while the family have been left completely heartbroken. Clair, 42, and 15-year-old Sam – whose surnames have not been released – tragically died as a result of their injuries sustained in the fatal smash yesterday.
A spokesperson for the family said: “Clair was a smart, loving parent, daughter and sister who would do anything for anyone. Prior to the pandemic, Clair worked at the Bolton Theatre, supporting those facing Mental Health challenges.
“She loved going to pottery class every week and was such a creative person and she could go from a lump of clay to making whatever she put her mind to. Sam was in Year 11, looking forward to studying music at college; he loved to sing and to play the drums. Listening to music was one of Sam’s favourite things to do, he was always around the house with his headphones on.
“When Sam wasn’t listening to music, he could be found in a world of his own playing on his computer. Sam’s family meant the world to him; he was a brother and son whose loss will leave a hole in our family forever. Christmas without Sam and Clair will be immensely difficult not only for us, but for everybody that knew them both.”
The family has asked for privacy as they grieve during this difficult time, while PC Thomas Johnson, of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts continue to remain with their family who are being supported by officers at this really difficult time.”
If you can help or have any information that may assist our enquiries, then please contact our Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741, quoting incident 2304 of 23/12/2023.” Information can also be reported online at www.gmp.police.uk.
Christmas without Sam and Clair will be immensely difficult not only for us, but for everybody that knew them both.”
