POLICE are seeking to trace the occupants of two cars who may be able to help their investigation into a fatal car crash.

Detectives from the force's Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit are appealing to trace the occupants of two vehicles who may have information following the crash in Newton-le-Willows on Monday, June 10.

Police were contacted at 10.30pm following reports a white Ford Kuga had been travelling along Southworth Road in the direction of Church Street when it left the road and collided with a tree close to the junction of Mere Road.

Jonathan Mennell, 35, was sadly confirmed dead at the scene.

His family, who have issued a loving tribute to him, are being supported by specially trained officers.

Jonathan Mennell sadly died in the crashJonathan Mennell sadly died in the crash (Image: Merseyside Police)

A 35-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

He has since been conditionally bailed pending further inquiries, police said.

READ > Two injured in crash between car and police vehicle

Occupants of white Ford Puma and another car sought

Detective Sergeant Andy Roper, Lead Investigating Officer from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Our thought and condolences remain with Jonathan’s family and friends at this difficult time and our work to provide them with answers continues.

“Today we would like to make a further appeal for any witnesses to the collision or the events leading up to it.  

“I am especially keen to speak with the occupants of two specific vehicles that were in the area at the time, who may not realise that this happened a short time after they passed the Ford Kuga."

Police at the scene the day after the crashPolice at the scene the day after the crash (Image: St Helens Star)

He added: “The first of these is a white Ford Puma which was travelling on the A572 Newton Road, near to the Travellers Rest pub, and was heading in the general direction of Newton-le-Willows when it was passed by the Ford Kuga.

"The second is a small white or silver car travelling on the A572 Southworth Road heading away from Newton-le-Willows when it passed the Ford Kuga travelling in the opposite direction close to the junction with Warren Drive. These instances both  would have been around 10.30pm, shortly before the collision.

"We would be grateful if the occupants of these vehicles could make contact with our team as soon as possible. Their information or dashcam could be vital, and they may not have realised the significance of the Ford Kuga until now.

“Likewise, if anyone else saw the incident or the Ford Kuga being driven in the area shortly before 10.30pm, please check your devices and come forward with any information.”

  • Anyone who thinks they can identify these vehicles, anyone who witnessed the incident, or anyone who has any dashcam footage of the collision is asked to call police's Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0151 777 5747, email SCIU@merseyside.police.uk, or DM @MerPolCC on Twitter quoting reference 24000517191.