A second man has been charged after an 81-year-old grandad was killed by a van.
John Newton died after being hit by the van on Utting Avenue East in Norris Green at around 6.27pm on Sunday, February 25. A man was charged with causing his death, and today police said they had charged a second person in connection with the incident.
Patrick Heron, 37, of Ashfield Road, Mossley Hill, has now been charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice. He will appear at Wirral Adult Remand Court this morning, Wednesday April 10.
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This comes after Christopher Daly, of Walton Village, Walton, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday April 5, where he denied causing the pensioner’s death by dangerous driving. But the 42-year-old, who appeared via video link from HMP Altcourse, pleaded guilty to the lesser count of causing death by careless driving.
Daly has also admitted causing death by driving while unlicensed and uninsured. He will now face a trial over the course of three to four days, beginning on August 19 this year. Judge David Aubrey KC remanded him into custody until this date.
A 40-year-old man from Walton was also arrested earlier this week on suspicion of assisting an offender. He has been conditionally bailed pending further enquiries. A 39-year-old woman from Walton arrested last week on suspicion of assisting an offender has been conditionally bailed pending further enquiries.
In a tribute, John’s family previously said: “The family wish to express their sincere thanks to everyone that came to help our beloved dad. John is missed by his whole family including children, grandchildren and the community we live in.”
The keen runner and cyclist was well known in the Norris Green area, having owned a garage and worked as mechanic for more than 50 years.
Detective Inspector Steve Street, of Merseyside Police, said: “This investigation is very much ongoing, and we have now charged two men in connection with the death of Mr Newton.
“Please come forward if you hold any information to assist, however small a detail you think it is, and we will continue to take action.”
Anyone who witnessed the collision or captured anything on CCTV or dashcam is asked to contact Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747, or email [email protected]. Alternatively, DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 24000203760.
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William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
