Devastating ‘too young’ tributes after Ryanair pilots killed in taxi motorway crash

Tributes have been pouring in for a Ryanair pilot and co-pilot who tragically died in a crash involving two lorries. Matt Greenhalgh, 28, and Jamie Fernandes, 24, were pronounced dead at the scene of the major collision on the M62 as they travelled to Liverpool John Lennon Airport in a taxi in the early hours of last Thursday morning (July 11).

The taxi carrying the pair was involved in the crash with two lorries at 5.31am on the westbound carriageway between Junctions 8 and 7. Matt, a Ryanair Captain, and Jamie, Senior First Officer, sadly passed away shortly after.

A GoFundMe page was later set up by Ryanair staff member Daniel Hayton, with friends, former colleagues and members of the public quick to donate to help the grieving family members.

READ: New AI cameras to be fitted to M6 gantries in Staffordshire They automatically detect if someone's on the phone or isn't using a seatbelt and sends the pictures instantly so drivers can be fined^[1]

READ: Drinkers hurt as pub brawl breaks out after England Euro 2024 defeat | Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to the Crown and Anchor, in Stone ^[2]

More than £30,000 has since been raised for the families of the two Ryanair pilots. The fundraising page stated: "Here at Ryanair we are sad to hear of the loss of two amazing colleagues I had the pleasure of working with in Manchester.

"So as a team we would like to raise some money to go and help Matt and Jamie's families with any costs for funeral arrangements etc and after in the long term. At the moment I'm aiming for £1,000 with half of any proceedings going towards Matt's family and the other half Jamie's family. Two amazing guys gone too soon."

Jamie joined Ryanair as a first officer in May after previous roles as a junior first officer and second officer. His academic journey included time at Buckinghamshire New University and pilot training at CAE in Quebec. Bolton School honoured his memory, stating: "We were very sad to hear the news of the tragic death of our Old Boy Jamie Fernandes. A keen hockey player while at school, we were pleased to see him go on to realise his ambition to be a pilot. Our thoughts are with his family and all his friends."

Preston Hockey Club also mourned the loss, saying: "The club is devastated to hear of the tragic passing of Jamie Fernandes, one of our former young members. Many people within the club remember Jamie very fondly! Our thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time".

A friend took to social media to express their grief: "You came into our lives for a short time with a good soul and a kind heart. Destroying to read the news, too young to leave us with such an exciting life ahead of you."

Captain Greenhalgh, from Stockport, was reportedly married and had studied at Middlesex University. Romiley Cricket Club conveyed their deep sadness over his passing, remembering Matt as an "athletic all-rounder" who was "hugely liked by all."

The Club took to social media to express their sorrow: "The Club are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Matt Greenhalgh. Matt was an athletic all-rounder, who always played with enthusiasm and commitment, and was hugely liked by all. A keen sportsman, Matt was a genuinely lovely bloke and all those at the Club who knew him will have fond memories of him. Our thoughts are with all of his family and friends at this incredibly sad and difficult time."

Ryanair pilot and first officer Mohcine Marzzak also shared his grief online: "Today we say goodbye to my dear friend Matt Greenhalgh. They were an extraordinary person full of joy and generosity the memories we shared will forever remain in our hearts you will be greatly missed. Rest in peace."

Following the devastating crash, the taxi driver involved suffered serious injuries and was admitted to hospital for treatment. In connection with the incident, a 61 year old lorry driver was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

After the initial inquiries, Cheshire Police have released the lorry driver on bail pending further investigation.

References

^{^} New AI cameras to be fitted to M6 gantries in Staffordshire (www.stokesentinel.co.uk)
^{^} Drinkers hurt as pub brawl breaks out after England Euro 2024 defeat | Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to the Crown and Anchor, in Stone (www.stokesentinel.co.uk)
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