Police have today arrested a man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving following a crash that claimed the lives of six people.

Christopher Barton and Janine Barton, were killed when their motorcycle was in a collision with a Ford Focus on the A61 between Wakefield and Barnsley on Sunday 21 July.

The couple from Barnsley had only recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

In a statement issued by police, Mr and Mrs Barton’s son described his parents as “a loving, caring mum and dad who always put me before everything else”.

Travelling in the car were Shane Roller, his partner Shannen Morgan and two of their daughters, Rubie Morgan-Roller and Lillie Morgan-Roller. All four, who were also from Barnsley, died at the scene. The couple’s eldest daughter Poppie was not with her family when the accident happened.

Family friend, Paul Hepple said the youngster had “lost her whole world in an instant”.

The accident happened between Staincross and Newmillerdam just before 4pm. The A61 remains closed between Shaw Lane and Warren Lane, while forensic teams examine the scene.  

Appeal for witnesses

Following the arrest, police are now appealing for anyone who saw a grey Porche 911 in the area to contact them.

 In addition, anyone who witnessed the collision or who has dashcam footage and has not already been in touch with the police, is asked to call West Yorkshire Police on 101 or go online at https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat  quoting reference 1157 of 21/7. 

Louise Moore of the Personal Injury team at Switalskis, says: “This accident shows just how quickly lives can be changed.

“My heart goes out to all those who have been affected and I would urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact the police about this tragic accident”.