Tributes have been paid to Michael Mullins, headteacher of Stretford Grammar
Michael Mullins, headteacher of Stretford Grammar(Image: Manchester Evening News)
A man has been charged with murder after a school headteacher died in a crash in Trafford. Emergency services were called out to a collision involving a car and a cyclist on Paddock Lane, in Altrincham, at around 6.10pm on Monday (April 20).
The cyclist tragically died at the scene. He was later named as Michael Mullins, 56, who had been headteacher of Stretford Grammar School for 17 years.
In a statement issued this morning (Friday), Greater Manchester Police confirmed a man had been charged in connection with the incident. Simon Richardson, 34, of no fixed address, has been charged with murder, manslaughter, dangerous driving, failing to stop, and driving without insurance.
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He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court later today.
Mr Mullins, who lived in Weaverham, near Northwich, was described as his family’s ‘loving Dad, husband, Brother-in-law, ‘Diddy’, Uncle, Son in law’.
In a statement, the family said: “He was devoted to his family and our lives will never be the same. A gap has been left in our hearts and within his role as a headteacher of Stretford Grammar school. Our Dad gave us fantastic memories growing up including a trip getting lost at night around Washington D.C but it was in his role as a Grandad where he truly excelled.
Michael Mullins with family (Image: Greater Manchester Police/family handout)
“At this time the family request privacy. Our love and memories of Michael will know no limits. We will love him forever, to Saturn and beyond.”
Liz Bater, deputy headteacher at Stretford Grammar, confirmed the ‘sad and devastating news’ in a letter to parents earlier this week. She said: “I know that this news will be a dreadful shock to you and your children, and, as a community built up so strongly over so many years by our dear friend and colleague, Michael, we will all support each other during this awful period.
“As a staff body, we have worked with Michael for many years and the relationships created can never be replaced. However, in his honour and as a mark of his tireless hard work for Stretford Grammar School, we will pull together to continue his legacy.”
Tributes left for Mr Mullins outside Stretford Grammar(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Officers are continuing to appeal for information as they continue with their investigation. Witnesses, or anyone with relevant video footage from the area, are urged to contact 101 or use the online LiveChat function, quoting log number 2771 of April 20, 2026. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.