A man in his 60s was declared dead at the scene of the crashPolice were called to a fatal crash on Wednesday (Image: Liverpool Echo)
A man has been charged following a fatal crash on the M57 earlier this week. Emergency services were called shortly after 3pm on Wednesday, September 10 to reports a black Audi A5 had left the motorway and caught fire on the northbound carriageway close to junction 2 and 3 (Knowsley).
A 60-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering serious injuries. Following inquiries, police believe there was an incident prior to the crash, involving a dark coloured VW Golf.
John Butler, 31, of Shaftesbury Avenue, in Kirkby, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and dangerous driving. He has been remanded and IS due to appear at Liverpool Magistrate’s Court this morning Friday, September 12.
A major emergency response was in attendance on the motorway following the incident and the northbound carriage was closed overnight between junction 2 and 3. An air ambulance landed at the scene, alongside several fire engines, ambulances, and police vehicles.
Detective Sergeant Kurt Timpson, Lead Investigating Officer from Merseyside Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “First and foremost our thoughts remain with the family of the man who sadly lost his life following the collision this afternoon. His family have been informed and are being supported by our specially trained family liaison officers.
“We have launched an investigation into the man’s death, and it is now a priority for us to get answers on how the collision occurred and my team are working to establish the key facts.
Police at the scene on the M57 following a fatal crash(Image: Liverpool Echo)
“Although someone has been arrested, this investigation remains in the early stages and as such we keep an open mind about the circumstances and appeal for the public’s help to assist us.
“We ask motorists who were in the area at around 3pm or immediately after the collision to please check your dashcam footage (front and rear) for any vital evidence which may help with our enquiries. Any help we receive, no matter how insignificant it may seem may help.
“Our priority is to ensure that we get answers for the family of the man who has died at this devastating time. Any help, however insignificant it may seem, would be greatly appreciated.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to DM @MerPolCC, contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747, or email SCIU@merseyside.police.uk quoting reference number 25000750601.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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