Family pays tribute to loving mum killed in WA train crash
Cailee Mansell, 29, died on Wednesday after the Mitsubishi Triton her family were driving in near Albany was hit by a train at a level crossing in Redmond.
Ms Mansell, who was a passenger, suffered critical injuries and died at the scene.
Police said the Mitsubishi was driving east on Redmond-Hay River Road and that the CBH grain train was travelling north.
Ms Mansell's family — including her husband and three children, and who live in the region — all received minor injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.
Two men on the train were not injured, but were treated for shock.
In a post on fundraising site GoFundMe, organisers said Ms Mansell was 'a light upon this earth' who was taken far too soon.
'Her sudden passing has left an unimaginable void in the hearts of all who knew her,' the post read.
'She leaves behind her heartbroken husband, Haydn and their three young children, who now face life without their mum's warmth, love, and guidance. Cailee Mansell leaves behind her heartbroken husband and their three young children. Credit: GoFund me
'Haydn is now navigating the difficult road ahead as a single parent, trying to provide emotional stability and practical care for his children during a time of deep grief. She also leaves behind her loving mother and best friend, Odette, who is grieving the unimaginable loss of her daughter.
'No amount can ever replace the love and presence of their mother, but with your help, we can ensure that this grieving family has the support and security they need in this incredibly difficult time.'
The donations — which already amount to more than $50,000 — will go to funeral and memorial expenses, childcare and schooling needs and daily living costs.
The crash closed road and rail around the site for more the 24 hours last week.
Major crash officers on Thursday combed the scene as they began an investigation into how the tragic incident happened.
A statement from freight train operator Aurizon on Thursday confirmed the fatal collision, saying it, along with CBH, would assist police with the investigation.
'Tragically, a passenger in the vehicle lost her life in the incident and we extend our condolences to her family and friends,' the statement read.
'This incident will be felt deeply by the local community, including our train drivers and employees who live and work locally.'
It is understood the Australian Transport Safety Bureau will conduct an independent investigation.
Ms Mansell's death is one of 120 so far this year on WA roads, in a horror toll putting the State on track for its worst 12 months for fatalities in more than a decade.
The figure includes 62 metropolitan fatalities — a sharp rise on the historic trend for the year to date — and 58 on regional roads.
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