Driver charged over fireball crash that killed 6 including family trapped in burning car

A driver will appear in court to face charges of causing the deaths of six people in a fireball crash on a busy road.

Christopher Cockell, 50, of Gresford Close, Woolley Grange, has been charged with six counts of causing death by dangerous driving.

Parents Shannen Morgan and Shane Roller were killed with their daughters, Rubie, 9, and Lillie, 4, when the family’s car struck a motorbike on the A61 on 21 July 2024.

The family were trapped inside the burning car.

Husband and wife Christopher and Janine Barton, from Barnsley, who were riding together on one motorbike were also killed in the crash.

An inquest previously heard that the silver Ford Focus being driven by Mr Roller, 33, collided head on with the BMW motorcycle.

Wakefield Coroner’s Court heard the collision happened as the motorcycle was overtaking another vehicle on the single-carriageway road, which had a 50mph (80 km/h) speed limit.

Coroner’s support officer Phil Marr told the hearing: ‘As a result of a head-on impact, the car was spun to the side of the road, where it caught fire.

‘It was not possible to release any of the occupants and all four were pronounced dead by paramedics at the scene.’

A Gofundme page set up for 11-year-old Poppie, who was not in the car, said: ‘We are reaching out to you with heavy hearts and a plea for help.

‘On 21st July 2024, a tragic car accident took the lives of Poppie’s entire family – her loving mum, dad, and two little sisters.

‘At just 11 years old, Poppie has lost her whole world in an instant.’

Superintendent Alan Travis of Wakefield District Police said at the time: ‘This is an absolutely tragic incident which has resulted in the loss of six lives.

‘Our thoughts go out to the families of those who have died who we are working with to provide support at this time.’

The A61 was closed between Shaw Lane and Warren Lane and police are seeking witnesses.