Major update about girl, 11, orphaned after 'entire family killed in horror crash'

An 11-year-old girl was orphaned when her parents and two siblings were killed in a horror crash. Poppie Roller has now returned to school as donations reached millions

An 11 year old girl has courageously returned to school after the devastating loss of her entire family in a terrible A61 crash, as a fundraiser to support her hits an "astonishing" total. Poppie Roller was orphaned on July 21 when her parents Shannen Morgan, 30, and Shane Roller, 33, along with her younger sisters Lillie, four, and Rubie, nine, died in the collision between Wakefield and Barnsley.

The family had been enjoying a Sunday walk before their Ford Focus met with a tragic accident involving a motorcycle around 3.45pm. Poppie had decided not to go on the walk that day, staying instead with family friend Paul Hepple, 37, in Barnsley.

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The motorcyclists, Christopher Barton, 56, and his wife Janine Barton, 48, also perished in the crash. An initial hearing at Wakefield Coroner's Court indicated Mr Barton was overtaking another vehicle when he crashed 'head-on' into the family's car.

While the police continue their investigation, the inquest has been deferred to an undetermined future date. Additionally, the driver of another car was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but has since been released on bail.

In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Mr Hepple initiated a GoFundMe campaign to ensure Poppie "has a stable, loving environment where she can heal and grow". The fundraising effort has now concluded after amassing a remarkable £408k, far exceeding the initial £3,000 goal, reports the Mirror.

In a heartfelt update, Mr Hepple disclosed that his recent "silence" was because he was trying to "keep things low-key while the family tries to grieve". He also announced that fundraising efforts have ceased.

He conveyed his deep appreciation, stating: "Thanks to your incredible generosity, an astonishing £408,207 has been raised. The initial target was £3,000 to help with Poppie's immediate needs, and I never could have imagined the outpouring of love and support that followed."

He provided further details about the donations, remarking: "There have been 22.5 thousand donations from people all over the world. Donations are now closed, as the amount raised is far beyond what anyone could have expected. It's truly remarkable."

He reassured everyone, saying: "I want to mention that not a single penny of the funds has been touched yet. GoFundMe is currently awaiting the transfer instructions, and after careful consideration, it has been decided that every single penny will go into a trust fund for Poppie, this ensures that your incredible generosity will continue to support her long into the future. Her aunt Faye has been added as the beneficiary to handle the funds, and she will transfer them to the trust fund."

Moreover, he updated on Poppie's condition: "Poppie is doing as well as can be expected under the circumstances. She has bravely returned to school and, although she was nervous at first, she is slowly settling in."

"She is receiving therapy at school, which is helping her navigate her loss. Poppie and her Aunt, Faye, have also received invaluable support from Brake, the road safety charity, who have been instrumental in helping them manage the legal side of things and providing guidance."

"Faye would like to thank Compass Be, who have supported Poppie and the wider community with help and support to deal with the loss of Poppie's sisters in local schools. As well as the FLO who have made many referrals to Winston's wish, Cruse, Brake and many other support networks that they can both now access."

"Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your continued kindness, patience, and support. Your generosity has not only secured Poppie's future but has also brought light during a very dark time."