Tragedy as mum killed in horror crash after horses escape on major UK road

A woman has died after a crash between a car and a van on a major UK road, with her devastated family paying a heartfelt tribute to her. 

Emergency services were called to the A737 at Howwood, Renfrewshire, at about 3.10am on Monday,   

They attended to Lesley McTear, who was in the passenger seat, but sadly she was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Ms McTear’s family said: “Lesley was a loving wife, mother, grandma and daughter-in-law. As a family, we are deeply saddened by the events that have caused such a void in our family.

“Lesley was the glue that kept us all together, and anyone who was lucky enough to know Lesley was showered by her unconditional love.”

Three others were injured in the accident. The 52-year-old driving the car that Ms McTear was in was taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. The other passenger, aged 33, was taken to Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.

The 59-year-old driver of the van involved in the accident was also taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital, where both men were assessed.

At around the same time of the accident, police received calls reporting six horses running loose on the road. Four of them died after being struck by vehicles, and two houses were taken to safety. 

The road remained closed for investigation until being reopened at 2pm.

Sergeant Jack Swindells, of Police Scotland, said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who has died and everyone involved.

“Our inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances and anyone who can assist with our investigation who has not already spoken to officers is asked to get in touch.”

An appeal has been made by Police Scotland, asking anyone who can help to call 101, quoting incident number 0291 of September 23 2024.