Barming Community Mourns Tragic Christmas Eve Crash Victim
The peaceful village of Barming is in shock after Lamin Manneh, a well-loved local, died in a horrific motorcycle crash on Christmas Eve. The accident happened around 2:30 PM on the busy A26 Tonbridge Road near The Bull pub.
Heartbreaking Details of the Crash
Lamin, in his 40s, was riding his white Honda 125cc towards Wateringbury when he lost control and smashed into a lamppost. Despite frantic efforts and a rush to hospital with severe head injuries, he tragically passed away on the same day.
His partner, Fatoumatta Njaya Mbye, shared her gut-wrenching grief: “I don’t even know what to say. I’m definitely out of words. Lamin was planning to come this January and get married to me as promised, but God knows best.”
Floral Tributes and Emotional Outpouring
The crash site near The Bull pub has become a shrine. Flowers and heartfelt notes reveal the deep void Lamin’s death has left:
- “Lammy, I’ll forever miss seeing your happy face, your bright smile, and hearing you say ‘Stephy’ or ‘lovely one’ across the room in only a way you’ll say it. We’re all missing you terribly and always will. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel.”
- “You may be gone, but your spirit will always be with us. There is a new star shining in the sky.”
Fundraiser Launched to Support Family and Repatriate Body
A GoFundMe, started by local Carrie Manfield, aims to raise £5,000 to bring Lamin’s body back to Gambia and support his grieving family. So far, the community has donated £1,460.
Carrie said: “Lamin was well loved within the community in Wateringbury for over a decade. Words cannot describe how devastated we are by his passing. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family back home in The Gambia. Anything you can donate, big or small, would be greatly appreciated.”
Police Appeal for Witnesses after Fatal Crash
kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police closed the A26 for over five hours as emergency crews attended to the scene. They confirmed Lamin was from maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone and that his next of kin have been informed.
The Serious Collision Investigation Unit is urging anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward:
- Contact Number: 01622 798538
- Reference: EW/DGC/119/24
- Email: [email protected]
Community United in Grief
Lamin Manneh’s sudden death has left a huge hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and the wider community. Tributes continue to pour in as locals prepare to honour his memory with a dignified farewell in his homeland.
This heartbreaking tragedy is a stark reminder of how precious life is — especially around the festive season.
