Man charged after mum and daughter die in M4 crash

"Cherished" Cheryl Woods and Sarha Smith died after a fatal crash on the M4

A man has been charged after a mother and daughter died in a motorway crash.

Cheryl Woods, 61, and Sarha Smith, 40, of Caerphilly, Wales, died on 20 October 2023 when they were involved in a multi-vehicle crash between J17 (Chippenham) and J18 (Bath).

Firas Zeineddine, 45, of Bluebell Drive, Keynsham, near Bristol, has been charged with two counts of death by dangerous driving.

Wiltshire Police said he is due to appear in court at a later date.

The serious crash closed the M4 for a number of hours

Four cars and a heavy goods vehicle were involved in the collision.

Last year, the women's family paid tribute to their "loving" mother and daughter.

The family statement said: "Cheryl Woods, cherished by those in her life, fulfilled the roles of a loving mother, doting grandmother, cherished sister, and a dear friend.

"Her selflessness was a defining trait, consistently prioritising her family's well-being over her own, and she took immense pride in her Welsh heritage while nurturing a deep love for nature.

"Sarha Smith, in the footsteps of her mother, unselfishly devoted herself to her family's needs ahead of her own.

"She was not only a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, but her absence leaves a void for those who relied on her radiant presence.

"Her legacy lives on through her six daughters, who will forever hold her memory close and strive to honour her with their efforts."

Two other people involved in the crash had minor injuries and were treated by paramedics at the scene.