Police update on taxi driver seriously injured in crash that killed Ryanair pilots
Cheshire Police have given an update on the taxi driver who sustained significant injuries in a devastating collision that resulted in the deaths of his two passengers. Ryanair Captain Matt Greenhalgh, 28, and Senior First Officer Jamie Fernandes, 24, tragically lost their lives in the incident which occurred on the M62 at around 5.30am on Thursday, July 11.
The pair were en route to their duties at Liverpool John Lennon Airport when the taxi they were in collided with two heavy goods vehicles. The injured taxi driver was taken to hospital for urgent treatment.
On July 19, a spokesperson from Cheshire Police reported that the driver “is out of hospital and recovering at home now,” reports the Liverpool Echo[1].
A 61-year-old lorry driver was arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving and serious injury by dangerous driving, and has been released on bail pending further investigation. Police have appealed for a cyclist who may have witnessed the crash to come forward.
Tributes poured in for both Mr Greenhalgh and Mr Fernandes after the tragic news broke online. Liverpool John Lennon Airport has since issued a statement to the Manchester Evening News paying tribute to the two pilots. It said: “Last week, we were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Captain Matt Greenhalgh and Senior First Officer Jamie Fernandes, who both worked here with Ryanair. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool John Lennon Airport are with their family, friends and colleagues at this time.”
Mr Fernandes, from Bolton, joined Ryanair as a first officer in May this year after previously holding positions as a junior first officer and second officer, according to his LinkedIn page. He attended Buckinghamshire New University and Bolton School, followed by pilot training at CAE in Quebec. Mr Greenhalgh, from Stockport, is understood to have been married and to have studied at Middlesex University.
Philip Britton, head of foundation at Bolton School, said: “We are very sad to hear the news of the tragic death of our Old Boy Jamie Fernandes this week. A keen hockey player while at school, we were pleased to see him realise his ambition to be a pilot. Our thoughts are with his family and all his friends.”
He added: “It has been touching over recent days to be sent memories of Jamie from his school friends and from teachers. We will collate those and I know they will be valued.”
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References
- ^ the Liverpool Echo (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
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