A mum whose baby son and sister were killed in a car crash has paid tribute to them. Karlene Warner, 30, and eight-month-old Zackary Blades, were killed instantly in their Peugeot 308 when they were hit by an Audi Q5 on the A1 near Durham on Friday. The pair sustained fatal injuries and were killed instantly at the scene.
Shalorna Warner, 26, and Zackary’s dad Jack Blades, said they are now coming to terms with losing two family members. Shalorna was driving the car at the time and sustained minor injuries. A 38-year-old man has been charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and will appear in court today.
The family said in a statement: ‘We are absolutely heartbroken to announce the tragic death of our beautiful son. ‘We only had you in our arms for eight months but in that time, you brought us so much happiness to all our lives. ‘We had so many amazing memories together as a family that will never ever be forgotten; thank you for giving us the best Christmas and holiday together in that time.
’ The family said Zackary loved his food, started to say mama, and his top teeth had just started coming through. They continued: ‘You were so close to standing up on your own. ‘I’m so sorry you never got to grow up.
‘Our little Zack – mammy and daddy love you so much, you didn’t deserve any of this. ‘You were such a happy, cheeky boy. ‘I am so sorry this has happened – our hearts are truly broken.
We will never forget you, you will always.