Jimmy Callery, a 66-year-old man, tragically fell from a bridge on the East Lancashire Road on Friday, October 25. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is now investigating his death after a mandatory referral from Merseyside Police.
According to the IOPC statement, police responded to a report of a man on the bridge and found Jimmy outside the railings. After pulling him over the railings and placing him in a police van, Jimmy left the vehicle and headed back to the railings before falling from the bridge. Despite paramedics being called, Jimmy was pronounced dead at the scene.
Jimmy’s family is devastated by his loss and is seeking answers about the events leading to his death. They are represented by Leanne Devine from the law firm Leigh Day. The family is urging anyone with information to come forward and help them understand what happened to Jimmy.
Described as an “incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend” by his family, Jimmy is dearly missed. The IOPC is conducting a thorough and independent investigation to understand the interactions between the police officers and Mr. Callery on the day of his death.
Catherine Bates, the regional director of the IOPC, emphasized the importance of gathering relevant information, especially from witnesses who saw the interaction between Jimmy and the officers on the bridge. The IOPC has met with Jimmy’s family to explain their role and the next steps in the investigation.
Leanne Devine stressed the need for anyone with information about the incident on the East Lancashire Road to come forward and assist the investigation. Potential witnesses are encouraged to contact Leanne Devine or Ellie Riley at Leigh Day to share what they know about the circumstances surrounding Jimmy’s death.
