Tragic details as Queensland mum killed on Mother's Day trip with daughter
Jodie Russell and her daughter, 7, were travelling to Brisbane to celebrate Mother's Day with family.
A Queensland family is mourning following the loss of a 41-year-old mother who was killed in a tragic car accident with her daughter — also in the car — miraculously surviving and still recovering in hospital.
Jodie Russell was making the three-hour journey from Tiana to Brisbane to visit family for Mother's Day with Matilda, 7, but "sadly [they] never made it" the devastated family have revealed.
Speaking of their heartache in a GoFundMe page set up for the family, organiser Jo Howie said Russell was "the most amazing human being, a mother, a sister, a daughter, Aunty and best friend to many" and the tragedy has left Matilda, also known as Tilly, "without her mum and hero".
Heartbroken husband speaks of mother-daughter bond
The pair were travelling along the Bruce Highway near Chatsworth at around 3:45pm on Friday when their car collided with a Ford Ranger towing a caravan. The 41-year-old died at the scene while Matilda was transported to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries, Queensland Police said.
"While we are so very grateful to have Tilly safe and well, [but] this tragedy has left her without her mum and hero," it says on the fundraiser set up for the family. Matilda's heartbroken father, Chris Paterson, said "there was never a stronger connection between a mother and her daughter than the one Jodie shared with Tilly".
Tragic twist after woman, 23, dies in horror car crash: 'No words'
Horror head-on collision between two trucks caught on dashcam
"Jodie was so empathetic and understanding with everyone around her," he told The Courier Mail.
"She had a smile for everyone and a heart of gold. She has left behind treasured memories that we will always hold" a statement issued on behalf of the family reads. "We are heartbroken by her sudden passing and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her dearly."
Tributes flow from devastated friends
Tributes from heartbroken friends have also been shared on social media where the mother is being remembered for her "beautiful face, smile and laughter".
"You had a smile that would light up any room and the joy you would bring once you entered it," one said. "You were such a beautiful person inside and out Jodie and I will miss you every day".
A group of Ms Russell’s friends issued a statement remembering her.
"Life will not be the same without you in it but we are so grateful for the times and memories we shared together," they said. "Your loving presence will endure forever in our hearts and souls."
The driver of the Ranger, a 76-year-old man, was taken to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries and a single passenger, a 72-year-old woman, was transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a serious condition with chest injuries.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
