Family of 15-year-old girl who died in M53 school bus crash pay tribute to 'warm hearted' girl
Jessica Baker was sadly killed after the school coach she was on overturned.
Last updated 2nd Oct 2023
The family of Jessica Baker who was killed in a school bus crash on the Wirral has issued a tribute to her.
They said she was a "warm hearted" girl whose death has left "a massive void in our lives".
In a statement, her family said she was a "wonderful daughter, granddaughter and niece, devoted sister and loyal friend".
"Her untimely death has led to a massive void in our lives that will never be filled."
They described Jessica as a "talented climber", who "helped coach younger climbers and competed around the country inspiring others".
Her school also paid tribute, saying she was "unequivocally kind and empathetic... a dedicated friend who was a well-liked and respected member of our school community.
"She was an unassuming, polite and conscientious student who exemplified the values of our school."
The school added that she was a "keen sportswoman... demonstrating an unwavering love of - and commitment to - rock climbing.
"Jessica will be greatly and sadly missed by her friends, teammates, classmates, and all at West Kirby Grammar School who had the pleasure and privilege to encounter her."
Jessica Baker sadly died as a result of the collision on the M53 northbound carriageway earlier today.
Emergency services were called on Friday shortly after 8am to reports of an overturned coach on the northbound M53 near to junction five at Hooton, Cheshire.
Merseyside Police said a total of 58 people were involved in the incident including the two fatalities.
Two children were taken to Alder Hey Children's Hospital with serious injuries and another two casualties were treated at Wirral'sArrowe Park Hospital.
One of those injured is a 14-year-old boy who has suffered life-changing injuries, said police.
Others involved in the incident were treated at an emergency training centre in Wallasey, with 13 treated for minor injuries before they were released.
The driver of the coach Stephen Shrimpton, 40, was also killed in the crash.