A mother's final act of love saved her daughter's life when a tree branch fell in a popular family park. Madia Kauser, 32, pushed her five-year-old daughter's pushchair out of harm's way at Witton Country Park in Blackburn on Monday evening before taking the full force of the falling branch herself.
Emergency services responded swiftly but Madia was pronounced dead at the scene. Her daughter survived unharmed thanks to her mother's split-second heroic action.
The family was enjoying an evening stroll when the beech tree branch suddenly fell near the park's Big Cover wood area. Madia's husband Wasim Khan, 33, was walking just yards ahead with their nine-year-old son when the tragedy struck.
Family testimony
Wasim Khan rushed to his wife's aid but nothing could be done to save her. The couple's five-year-old daughter witnessed her mother's sacrifice and later recounted the heroic moment.
Former mayor and current councillor Zamir Khan MBE, Madia's uncle, revealed: "Her little girl told me her mother pushed her out of the way as the branch fell. Madia was a loving, doting mother and a very caring person."
He added: "The older boy was walking with his father in front and could not believe what happened. It is very hard for the children. I do not think they will ever walk in that park again."
Council response
Blackburn with Darwen Council immediately established a safety cordon and removed the entire beech tree as a precautionary measure. Council chief executive Denise Park said: "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the family and friends of the person who has lost their life at this very difficult time."
She added: "Witton Park is a much-loved community space, and the safety of everyone who visits is of the utmost importance to us." Emergency services including paramedics and air ambulance attended the scene.
Community support
The local Muslim community rallied around the grieving family. The Blackburn Muslim Facebook group posted a condolence notice stating: "Please keep this mother and her young children in your prayers. May Allah give them Sabrun Jameel. Condolences can be paid to the family at Madina Masjid on Oak Street from 11am."
Lancashire Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
