Mum dies after pony and trap crash that killed her husband and toddler daughter
A white DAF tipper truck was driving southbound near Tonbridge, Kent, when it struck the pony and trap, which was travelling in the same direction.
12:30, 10 Apr 2026Updated 12:52, 10 Apr 2026
View 2 ImagesRita Connors, her husband Francie Connors and their child Ka died in the crash(Image: Facebook/Paddy Doherty Site)
A mum has now died after a tipper truck crashed[1] into a pony and trap killing her along with her husband and three-year-old daughter.
Rita Connors, her husband Francie Connors and their child Ka died in the crash on the A228 in East Peckham, near Tonbridge in Kent.
The mum-of-four was rushed to hospital after emergency[2] services arrived at the scene on the evening of April 1. Mr Connors and the pony died at the scene while Ka died in hospital a short while later.
Kent Police[3] yesterday confirmed Rita Connors had also tragically died.
The pony and trap was travelling southbound on the A228 when it was struck by a DAF tipper truck driving in the same direction.
The driver, a 29-year-old man from Kent, was arrested in connection with the crash but has since been released on bail.
View 2 ImagesRita Connors and her husband Francie Connors(Image: Facebook/Paddy Doherty Site)
Paddy Doherty, Big Fat Gypsy Wedding star and Celebrity Big Brother[4] winner led tributes to the family[5], to whom he is related.
Doherty posted several videos to Facebook[6], calling the crash a 'travesty,' and describing the heartbreak of losing his relatives.
Article continues belowHe said: "My heart's broke over that young boy and his daughter ... Imagine going for a ride in a horse cart, there's not more beautiful in the world[7].
We call it a drive, a nice little country drive, his wife, his child and him, within a split blink gone, their lives are gone."
In a previous statement, Kent Police said: "An investigation into the circumstances is underway and witnesses or anyone who saw the truck or pony and trap prior to the collision, is urged to contact the appeal line."
The Mirror[8] has contacted the force for comment.