A family has paid tribute to Stephen Jones, a 33-year-old father who died following a car crash on Christmas Eve. Stephen was taken to hospital with serious injuries after the collision and passed away on January 3.
His partner, a 34-year-old woman, remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition. Their eight-year-old son suffered minor injuries and is being cared for by his wider family.
In a tribute, Stephen's family described him as 'a loving son, brother, partner, uncle but most importantly, a dad'. They said his role as a father 'meant the world to him'. They added: 'A friend and a lifelong Everton supporter who was filled to his core with a passion to help people. His love for coaching children's grassroots football meant he made a difference in so many lives.'
A 32-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested at the scene. Police said he has been bailed with conditions and is under investigation for causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs.
Detective Sergeant Simon Duffy from the Serious Collision Investigation unit said: 'Our thoughts remain with Stephen's family at this tragic time. We will continue to support them throughout this investigation and seek to provide the answers that they need.' He urged anyone with dashcam footage or who was in the area of the M57 or East Lancashire Road at around 8.30pm on Christmas Eve to contact police.
