NEARLY a week on from a devastating crash that resulted in the death of a 35-year-old man a police investigation is continuing.
As the Star has reported, at about 10.30pm on Monday, June 10, a white Ford Kuga that had been travelling along Southworth Road in the direction of Church Street, Newton-le-Willows left the road.
The Kuga collided with a tree close to the junction of Mere Road.
Jonathan Mennell, 35, from Lowton, died at the scene.
Known as Jonny, his family say he was a "beloved son, father, brother, nephew, cousin and friend to all".
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.
The investigation
Detectives are investigating from the force's Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit appealing to trace the occupants of two vehicles who may have information following the crash.
Speaking last week, Detective Sergeant Andy Roper, lead investigating officer from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts 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."
Potential key witnesses
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.”
How to contact police
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.
Family's tribute and fundraiser
The issued a tribute via Merseyside Police, which read: "As a family we are deeply saddened and shocked to hear our lovely Jonny, has passed away.
"Beloved son, father, brother, nephew, cousin and friend to all.
"Anyone that knew Jonny will be devastated by this news, as all he did was make people laugh and smile.
"He will be forever missed, may he now rest in peace."]
Family, friends, and those who knew Jonathon have reached out to the Mennell family in recent days to show their support and pass on their condolences.
A Go Fund Me page set up by the family to help with funeral costs has also raised more than £5,000.
A statement on the fundraising page read: "I'd like to begin with thanking everybody who has sent their heartfelt condolences, we have been so overwhelmed with the shower of love you have shown us all and we are so very appreciative of all of you.
"As you can imagine we could never have predicted such a sudden loss and as a family we would want our brother to have the send off that he deserves.
"Any contribution, no matter how small, would be greatly appreciated.
"Once again we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support."
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