Tributes have been paid to a ‘devoted’ mother and her ‘beautiful and talented’ daughter who died in a horror three-vehicle crash on their morning school run.
Emma van der Avoird, 55 years old, was taking her daughter Khiana (16) to Bedford Morden School in Bedfordshire, on Monday, November 1st.
The fatal collision occurred around 8am when a van and car collided westbound between the Black Cat roundabout (A428) and the HGV lorry.
The mother and her daughter, Little Paxton in Cambridgeshire were both killed at the scene.
The family released a statement saying that they are overwhelmed by sadness and grief over the tragic deaths of Emma and Khiana.
“They were both bright, strong, and forthright people. Emma was on her journey to take Khiana to Bedford Modern School. She was a bright, popular student there.
Khiana (pictured), 16, tragically died in the crash. She attended Bedford Modern School, and was described by Bedford Modern School as a ‘bright’ and ‘popular’ pupil.
Emma van der Avoird (pictured), a mother who died in the accident, was described as strong and devoted by her family
Emma had previously lost Khiana, her husband who died suddenly in 2011.
According to the family, ‘Emma was as close as any mother could be to Khiana. “Emma was a loving mother who had dedicated her life to Khiana since the sudden passing of their father Ed 10 years back.
‘Khiana was beautiful and talented at the beginning her life.
The family stated that they were devastated that the children had been taken from them while they still had much to live for.
“We will all miss Emma & Khiana deeply, but take comfort in knowing they have been reunited with their families.”
A man in his 20s, was arrested in connection to the incident and released on bail.