Elderly Woman Fatally Struck by Bus While Crossing Busy Bishop Auckland Junction
The community of Bishop Auckland is mourning the loss of Janet Holmes, an 81-year-old woman described as a "kind, fun-loving, and incredibly positive" individual, following a tragic road traffic accident on Wednesday morning.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. when Mrs. Holmes was crossing the road at the busy Prince’s Street junction with Newgate Street. A bus struck her, leaving her with critical injuries. Emergency responders arrived promptly and administered treatment at the scene before transporting her to the hospital. Despite their efforts, she passed away later that day.
Her family, devastated by the loss, issued a heartfelt statement expressing the profound impact she had on those around her. “Janet was a kind, fun-loving, and incredibly positive person. She had the amazing ability to form strong positive relationships with almost everyone she met. Her loss will leave an enormous gap in the lives of not just her own family but also the many friends she made, both old and new. That morning, she was on her way to her arts and crafts group, which she loved, when this tragic event happened,” they shared.
Mrs. Holmes was well-known and admired in the local community. Friends and neighbors spoke of her vibrant energy, her unwavering positivity, and her dedication to fostering connections through her arts and crafts group. “She was a ray of sunshine,” one neighbor remarked. “Always smiling and always ready to lend a hand. It’s heartbreaking to think we won’t see her walking through the neighborhood again.”
Her tragic passing has sparked conversations about pedestrian safety in the area. The Prince’s Street junction, a bustling intersection, has been flagged by residents as a challenging area for pedestrians due to high traffic volumes. Calls for enhanced safety measures, such as clearer pedestrian crossings and traffic-calming measures, have grown louder following this incident.
The driver of the bus involved in the collision, a man in his 50s, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released under investigation as inquiries continue. Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has relevant dashcam footage to come forward.
Durham Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) has urged individuals with information to email SCIU@durham.police.uk, quoting incident reference number 98 of November 13. Officers are also working to support Mrs. Holmes’ family during this difficult time.
Mrs. Holmes’ death is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the impact one person can have on a community. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that she touched the lives of many with her warmth, generosity, and infectious joy.
Her loss has left a void not just in her family but also among friends and acquaintances who cherished her presence. A friend from her arts and crafts group noted, “Janet had a gift for bringing people together. She didn’t just make crafts; she made friendships. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone she met.”
While the investigation seeks to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the tragedy, Mrs. Holmes will be remembered for her kindness, her unyielding positivity, and her profound ability to connect with others. Her story serves as a solemn call for vigilance and compassion on the roads we all share.
