Detectives investigating the death of a grandmother following an incident on a bus say her family deserves answers. Alison Evans, known as Ally, died on Tuesday, October 13, and a manslaughter inquiry was opened.
At around 9.30am that day, police received reports of an altercation between two women on board a Stagecoach service 7 bus travelling along York Road in Hartlepool. Shortly after, 60-year-old Ally entered Coral Bookmakers, where she suffered a medical emergency and subsequently died.
Extensive inquiries continue
Cleveland Police has stated detectives have undertaken extensive inquiries, including the retrieval of CCTV, witness statements and forensic examinations. Nevertheless, investigators believe there are still a number of passengers and members of the public who saw what happened and have not yet come forward.
A 26-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and remains on conditional bail. Tributes were paid earlier this month to the 'kind-hearted and bubbly' former carer, Ally, who "lived for her family and her friends".
Appeal to unidentified witnesses
Detectives say ticketing data and bank transaction analysis is continuing to identify passengers on the bus, who may not have come forward yet. As previously reported, several passengers are believed to have attempted to intervene in the confrontation, reports Teesside Live.
Detective Inspector John Bonner said: "Two weeks have passed since Alison sadly lost her life, and both her family and the investigation team continue to seek answers about exactly what happened that morning."
"We know there were several passengers travelling on the bus who witnessed all or part of the incident. We also know that several members of the public intervened during the confrontation between the two women. Despite extensive enquiries, some of those individuals remain unidentified."
"Our investigation has progressed significantly; however, we are still trying to establish the full circumstances of what occurred both on the bus and in the moments afterwards."
"We are particularly keen to understand what was said, who said it, how the incident developed, and what happened after the two women left the bus and before Alison became unwell at Coral Bookmakers."
"We know there are people who may hold important information but perhaps believe they only witnessed a small part of the incident. What may appear insignificant to them could be extremely important to the investigation."
"We are actively reviewing ticketing information, banking transactions and other evidential opportunities to identify those who were on the bus that morning. However, those enquiries take time, and we would much rather speak with people directly while their recollection remains as clear as possible."
"I also want to reassure anyone considering coming forward that they will be treated with the utmost courtesy, respect and sensitivity. We understand that some people may be reluctant to contact the police or may have concerns about becoming involved. We are happy to discuss those concerns and, where appropriate, put measures in place to protect and support witnesses. Information can also be provided anonymously."
"Most importantly, Alison's family deserve answers about what happened that morning. I would ask anyone who travelled on the bus, witnessed the incident, intervened, or saw either woman afterwards and has not yet spoken with police, to please come forward."
Those with information are urged to get in touch with Cleveland Police by calling 101 or through their website, quoting reference number 205074.
