A British mum has been tragically killed in a horrific motorbike crash while celebrating her anniversary on a dream holiday in Jamaica. Lisa Ball, 53, from Keighley, West Yorkshire, was enjoying a romantic getaway with her partner Anthony Hurt when disaster struck on the island’s notorious North Coast Highway near Montego Bay.
The couple were riding a rented Honda scooter when a pick-up truck suddenly pulled out from a restaurant car park and smashed into them. The impact hurled Lisa more than 60ft through the air in front of stunned witnesses.
The crash occurred around 7.40pm on Sunday, May 19. Despite being rushed to hospital, Lisa succumbed to catastrophic head injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Her partner Anthony, believed to have been driving the bike, miraculously escaped with only minor foot injuries.
Heartbroken daughter Chloe Watson confirmed the devastating news, posting an emotional tribute online: “Love you mum.”
Lisa was a proud mum and doting grandmother to Olivia, Daisy, Lyla, Lillie and Madelyn.
Close friends have described Lisa, was also known by her social media name Jo-Ann Pickles, as a “gentle soul” and “one of the kindest people you could ever meet”.
Fiona Ward, a close friend, said: “This beautiful lady came to Jamaica with her partner and they were having the best time until this tragic accident. Everyone who loved Jo is grieving.”
Claire Ettenfield, a salon owner from Keighley, added: “She was kind, caring and full of love. A real gentle soul.”
The driver of the pick-up truck has been detained by Jamaican authorities and is being questioned.
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We are supporting the family of a British national who has died in Jamaica and are in contact with local authorities.”
The UK Government warns travellers that “road accidents and fatalities are common” in Jamaica, with poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, and reckless driving posing serious risks.
