Tragic Collision on M62: Two Ryanair Pilots Killed
In a devastating accident, two Ryanair pilots, Jamie Fernandes, 24, and Matthew Greenhalgh, 28, lost their lives when an Uber they were traveling in was crushed between two lorries on the M62. The tragic incident occurred as their Uber came to a halt behind traffic near Warrington West.
Anthony Burns, the 63-year-old HGV driver, was behind the wheel of the lorry that hit the Uber. It was revealed in court that Burns might have “switched off” or fallen asleep, causing him to fail in noticing the queue of stationary vehicles. Despite travelling at a steady 56mph, Burns didn’t register the traffic ahead until it was too late, causing the fatal collision.
Uber driver Rashid Mehmood suffered severe injuries but miraculously survived the crash. As for the victims, the court recognized their promising futures and the profound loss felt by their families. Burns, who has a long history of driving professionally, expressed deep remorse for the incident. Although charged with causing death by dangerous driving, the court acknowledged his previously clean record and the remorse he showed.
Burns was sentenced to 10 years in prison and banned from driving for 150 months. The heartbreaking accident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with even a momentary lapse in attention. Our thoughts go out to the victims’ families and all affected by this tragedy. Stay safe on the roads, everyone.