Liverpool FC fans 'heartbroken' over death of dad killed in car crash on way home from match

Liverpool FC fans paid tribute to a beloved dad who was killed in a car crash on his way home from Anfield last night. Neil Bradley, 59, originally from Liverpool but more recently living in Oldham, died in hospital after his car had collided with a wall and lamppost on Lister Drive, in Fairfield, at about 10.15pm. No other vehicles were involved in the incident, Merseyside Police has confirmed.

Mr Bradley was driving home after watching Liverpool beat Aston Villa 2-0 in a result which saw them go top of the Premier League. Mr Bradley's family issued the following tribute: “Neil had an insatiable thirst for life and often enjoyed running, trainspotting, listening to rock music and supporting his boyhood club Liverpool. He was a ray of sunshine and could light up any room with his jokes. A loving father, son, brother, husband and friend to many. He will be missed dearly.”

Commenting on the ECHO's Facebook post which shared the news of Mr Bradley's death, Karyn Somerville said: "Heartbreaking xx Thoughts and prayers are with all his Family and Friends at this very sad time xx." Teresa O'Connell said: "How sad, deepest sympathy to all his family and friends." Joan Chidlow said: "Just before Christmas too. RIP. from Liverpool." Catherine Murphy said: "Thoughts and prayers to all family and friends. So sad! May he Rest In Peace."

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Detective Sergeant Andy Roper, Lead Investigating Officer from the Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts are with Neil’s family at this devastating time and our specialist family liaison officers are supporting them. We are continuing to investigate the collision and the events leading up to it. I urge anyone who witnessed or has information on this incident which will assist the investigation to please contact us.

“Neil had been to the Liverpool v Aston Villa match at Anfield and we believe he had parked his 2015 red Ford Focus near to Newsham Park/Orphan Drive. At around 10.15pm, he was driving his car to return home when this incident happened on Lister Drive. I would like to appeal anyone who may recall seeing a red Ford Focus in the area at the time to please contact our officers.

“Also, we ask that anyone who was in the area and has dash camera fitted to their car to please review your footage or contact our team so that we can do so. Any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant it may appear, could assist us in providing answers for Neil’s family.”

If you witnessed the incident, you can call the Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747, email SCIU@merseyside.police.uk, or DM @MerPolCC on Twitter quoting reference 24000953003.