Woman, 32, who died in horror motorway crash was ‘wonderful’ manager at Bolton pub

A woman who died in a horrific motorway crash^[1] was a 'wonderful' manager at a pub in Bolton. Victoria Goodwin, described by her family as a 'shining light', tragically died after the crash on the M65 in Lancashire last Wednesday (March 14).

The 32-year-old was a manager at the Black Dog pub on Church Street in Belmont, with the pub brewery issuing a public statement saying it is 'deeply saddened' by her death.

Victoria tragically lost her life after suffering serious injuries in the major crash on the M65, near to the M61 junction. Police said a Peugeot 208 that she was a passenger in had overtaken a Mercedes Atego HGV before 'losing control' at around 7pm and hitting a barrier.

The car then re-entered the carriageway and crashed into a number of other vehicles. Victoria died from her injuries, as the driver of the Peugeot, a man in his 40s, and a child passenger suffered less serious injuries. The occupants of the other vehicles were uninjured.

The pub’s brewery Joseph Holt issued the following statement on social media on Monday (March 18), writing: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sad news of our wonderful pub manager, Victoria Goodwin, who on March 14, 2024, passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a tragic car accident.

“The entire Joseph Holt family is deeply saddened by this devastating loss. Our deepest sympathies, thoughts, and prayers are with Nik, Poppy and both families during this incredibly difficult time.

“Our thoughts are also with all the staff at the Black Dog. We kindly request that their privacy is respected as they navigate through this challenging period. Victoria’s passing is a great loss to everyone, she will be sadly missed by all her friends, family and anyone who knew her.”

Following Victoria’s death, her family issued a heartfelt tribute, and said: "It is a great sadness we have to announce that our loving daughter Victoria Goodwin passed away on March 14, 2024 due to injuries sustained in a car accident. She was a shining light in all our lives, a talented singer and musician and will be sadly missed by all her family and friends.”

Sgt Phil Baxendale, of the Specialist Operations Road Policing Unit, appealed for witnesses, adding: “Very sadly this collision has now resulted in Victoria losing her life and I would continue to appeal for any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police, or anyone with dashcam footage, to come forward and speak to us.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 1217 of March 13 or email [email protected]

References

1. ^{^} died in a horrific motorway crash (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
2. ^{^} The baby-faced student who wrote 'how-to' guide on weapons and bombs for 'misfits and nobodies' from his mum's house (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)