**Community in Mourning After Bodies of Two Teenage Boys Discovered on Railway Tracks**
Tragedy has struck the community of Poynton, near Stockport, where the bodies of two 16-year-old boys were found on the railway line near Poynton station late on Thursday evening. One of the teenagers has been locally identified as Joshua Myers, a young man from Handforth who had previously been reported missing by police earlier this year.
The discovery was made shortly after 10pm, following urgent calls to emergency services reporting a ‘casualty’ on the tracks. Cheshire Constabulary quickly responded at the scene, but the ongoing investigation is being led by officers from British Transport Police (BTP), who have indicated that the incident is not being treated as suspicious at this time.
Joshua Myers’ name will be familiar to some, as in May, Cheshire Police issued a public appeal for help to locate him, believing he might have travelled as far as Devon and Cornwall. He was subsequently found, but there were further concerns when he was reported missing again for a brief period in June. Now, the confirmation of his death—along with that of his friend—has led to an outpouring of grief across the region.
On Friday morning, Poynton station saw an array of floral tributes laid at its entrance by friends, classmates, and members of the public. The heartfelt memorial serves as testimony to the depth of sorrow being felt by many. Witnesses described a sombre atmosphere at the station, with police and Network Rail officials present at the scene as investigations continued.
British Transport Police, speaking about the events, confirmed that both boys’ families had been informed, and a file is now being prepared for the coroner. The officers praised the efforts of the paramedics, who had worked tirelessly to save the lives of the teenagers, before sadly pronouncing both dead at the scene. A spokesperson for BTP said, “Officers attended with paramedics. Very sadly and despite the best efforts of paramedics, two 16-year-old boys were both pronounced dead at the scene.”
The close-knit feel of the community has been brought sharply into focus by the tragic loss. One passenger, who had stepped off a train at Poynton station the following morning, told the Manchester Evening News, “It’s just devastating. I have teenage children myself, including a 16-year-old boy. It brings it so close to home.” Her words echoed the sentiments of many who found the event profoundly affecting.
At present, police have not provided further details about the exact circumstances of the boys’ deaths, urging the public and media to avoid speculation as their enquiries are ongoing. Officers reassured residents that there are no indications of third-party involvement and that support is being offered to the bereaved families.
As details emerge and the coroner begins preparations for the inquest, the dual tragedy has prompted discussion about the challenges faced by young people, as well as the provision of support networks for those in distress. This unfortunate incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of community vigilance and mental health resources.
The thoughts of the entire region remain with the families and friends of Joshua Myers and his companion during this unimaginably difficult time. As investigations progress, the hope remains that answers will offer some solace to those mourning their loss.