Tragedy for '˜popular' Larbert family

The Ahmad family from Larbert were travelling southbound on the M9 in their silver Mercedes car when it was involved in a collision with a white Vauxhall van around 9pm last Friday.

Saadia Ahmad (37), who was a passenger in the car being driven by her husband Sajjad (37), died at the scene.

Van driver Mark Hansen (42) was also pronounced dead at the scene of the accident which occurred on a stretch of motorway between Polmont and Linlithgow.

Nine-year-old Ayesha Ahmad died from her injuries early the following morning in Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

Her father, who was also being treated in the Larbert hospital, lost his fight for life late on Tuesday.

His sons, aged ten and 14, are still receiving treatment for serious injuries, one in the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, and the other in Forth Valley Royal.

It is understood Mr Hansen, who lived in Singapore but was working in the UK, was travelling the wrong way down the motorway when the collision took place.

The Ahmad’s ran a corner store in Denny and last night tributes were paid to the popular shopkeepers.

Claire Marhall posted on Facebook: “So sad – your shop will never be the same RIP.”

A neighbour in Larbert described them as a “happy, quiet family”.

Police are still appealing for any witnesses to Friday’s crash to come forward.

Following the latest death, Sergeant Scott Sneddon said: “Our sincere condolences go to the Ahmad family, who have asked that their privacy be respected at this tragic time.

”Our enquiries continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding this collision and I’d like to thank the witnesses who have so far come forward.

“Anyone who witnessed the collision, saw either of the vehicles shortly beforehand, or has any information about this and has not yet been in contact is urged to get in touch.

Information can be given to Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.