Tributes paid to ‘loving’ gran after Boldron A66 crash
Dr Shaista Shirazi suffered fatal injuries when her BMW collided with a Renault Tipper van at 7.15am on the westbound carriageway of the A66 near Boldron on February 2. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, the 57-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene and a large stretch of the road was closed by police. 
Durham Police previously said that a 29-year-old man, who was driving the van, was arrested in connection with the crash. Today (March 4), more than a month on, her family have said she was "loved by all", in an emotional tribute. They said: "Our mother was a deeply caring and compassionate woman who was loved by all who knew her.
"She had a rare ability to make people feel heard and understood, and was a trusted confidant and loyal friend to many across the world. "She was passionate about learning and was remarkably well read. As a lecturer, she inspired her students who valued not only her knowledge but also her dedication and support.
"She was a loving wife and devoted mother to her three children, and had recently become a proud grandmother, a role she embraced with great love and joy. "She will be profoundly missed." After the crash, police extended their gratitude to several members of the public who stopped at the scene and tried to help.
Their efforts were appreciated by all involved in the response.
An investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.