A family's Christmas was shattered by tragedy when a father-of-four was killed in a road collision in the early hours of Christmas Eve in Southport.
A Tragic Discovery During Christmas Preparations
Simon Coombes, aged 55, was struck by a black Mini Cooper on a residential road in Southport, Merseyside. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 5.30am on Tuesday, 24 December, but the much-loved father was pronounced dead where he lay.
His son, Bailey-James West, 32, has poignantly described the moment the devastating news reached his family as he was preparing Christmas dinner at home in Leigh. "I was on my own, peeling spuds ready for Christmas dinner, when I noticed a missed call from my auntie," he recounted. His cousin and aunt had also messaged his sister urging contact.
"I just had a gut feeling it was about my dad and kind of switched off," Bailey-James said. "My sister rang, where it was confirmed. I was in shock, if anything. It didn't feel real."
A 'Cheerful' Father Remembered
Originally from Bury in Greater Manchester, Simon had lived in Southport for over a decade. His family have paid moving tributes to a devoted Manchester City fan with a passion for rock music, describing him as a "cheerful person" who "kept himself to himself".
"He clearly changed his life around for the better, which we are very proud of," his son said. "We love him to the moon and back. He was a big Ozzy, Motley Crüe and Guns and Roses fan. I definitely got my music taste from him."
Simon's brother, David, recalled the agonising moment he was informed while on a tram returning from Manchester. "I got both phone calls on the tram, and because there were so many people around us I couldn't say anything," he said. "It's the longest journey home I have ever had."
David remembered his brother as a happy, hardworking metal polisher, whose career was cut short by accidents at work. The pair would often meet for coffee and cake at Costa Coffee in Southport town centre.
Police Investigation and Family Appeal
Merseyside Police's serious collision investigation unit has launched a probe into the fatal incident. Detective Sergeant Andy Roper expressed his condolences, stating: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family of the man who sadly lost his life following the collision this afternoon. A fatal collision is always heartbreaking for families and loved ones, but for it to happen on Christmas Eve is particularly tragic."
He urged anyone with information to come forward, especially those who may have been driving in the area early that morning or who have relevant dashcam footage.
In the days following the tragedy, Simon's grieving family visited the scene to lay flowers, cards, and a poignant packet of mince pies. "It was very daunting, eerie, quiet, but cars fly up and down there," David said of the roadside tribute. "People grieve differently."
The family now faces the difficult task of coming to terms with their sudden loss, with Bailey-James adding: "I'm shocked and in disbelief, as you think it couldn't happen to you or your family."
