Lecturer who died in HGV crash was new grandmother
Family handoutThe family of a lecturer who died in a crash with a heavy goods vehicle said she was "deeply caring and compassionate" and had recently become a grandmother.
Dr Shaista Shirazi, 57, was driving on the A66 in Boldron, County Durham, on 2 February when her car collided with a Renault Tipper. She died at the scene.
In a statement, her family said: "As a lecturer, she inspired her students who valued not only her knowledge but also her dedication and support."
Durham Police said an investigation into the circumstances of the collision was ongoing.
The crash happened on the westbound carriageway at about 07:15 GMT and closed a section of the cross-country road for several hours.
Her family said she had a "rare ability to make people feel heard and understood" and was a "trusted confidant and loyal friend to many across the world".
"She was a loving wife and devoted mother to her three children and had recently become a proud grandmother, a role she embraced with great love and joy."
Officers thanked several members of the public who stopped at the scene and tried to help.
"Their efforts were appreciated by all involved in the response," police added.
