Man rescued from bridge by police but returned moments later and died

The family of James Callery, who died after he fell from a bridge, are appealing for information following his death. James, who was known to loved ones as Jimmy, fell from a bridge on East Lancashire Road near the junctions of Rainford Road and Abbey Road in St Helens on Friday, October 25.

Following his death, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed it is investigating, following a mandatory referral from Merseyside Police due to the contact he had with officers. Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust have also confirmed they are carrying out an investigation.

In a statement on its website the IOPC said police had initially attended a report of a man on a bridge, and upon arrival at the scene saw Jimmy on the outside of the railings. The report said Jimmy was pulled over the railings and placed in the back of a police van. Shortly after, Jimmy left the van and headed directly towards the railings. Moments later he had fallen from the bridge. Paramedics were called, but Jimmy was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Jimmy’s family are seeking as much information as possible to help with the investigation. They have urged the IOPC to carry out full and rigorous investigations in relation to their involvement with Jimmy prior to his death. The family have also requested that Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust carry out an internal investigation, in connection with the crisis team involved with Jimmy in the months leading up to his death.

His family said: “We are devastated by the loss of Jimmy and are desperate for answers about what happened. We urge anyone who may have seen anything or has any information, no matter how small, to come forward and help us understand the events leading to Jimmy’s death. We hope that those who might know something will help us find peace by shedding light on his final moments.”

Three days after Jimmy's death, his family paid an emotional tribute to him, they said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Jimmy Callery on Friday 25 October 2024 at the age of 66. Jimmy will always be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion to his family. He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

"His kindness, compassion, and selflessness touched countless lives, earning him a special place in the hearts of all who knew him. In honouring Jimmy’s memory, we acknowledge the struggles he faced over the last four months with mental illness.

"We encourage everyone to be mindful of the importance of mental health and to support one another in times of need. We kindly request to respect our family’s privacy during this difficult time and allow the space to grieve. Rest in peace, Jimmy. Your love and legacy will never be forgotten."

In a statement released by the IOPC, Regional Director Catherine Bates, said: “Any loss of life is a tragedy, and our investigation will be thorough and independent to ensure we understand the police officers’ interactions with Mr Callery on the day he sadly died. We would like to speak to anyone who believes they have any relevant information, but we would particularly like to hear from people who may have witnessed the interaction officers had with Mr Callery while on the bridge. We have met with Mr Callery’s family to explain our role and outline next steps in our investigation.”

The family are represented by Leanne Devine, partner at law firm Leigh Day, Ms Devine said: “It is vital that the IOPC has as much information as possible so that its investigators can build a full and clear picture of what happened to Jimmy in the hours leading up to his death. Anyone who has any information about what happened on the East Lancashire Road is asked to contact us to share what they know.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Leanne Devine at ldevine@leighday.co.uk or Ellie Riley at eriley@leighday.co.uk. Any information will be passed to the IOPC where relevant.