Family pay tribute to lifelong Everton fan who has died following East Lancs Christmas Eve crash

Police have confirmed that a man has died after a serious collision in Croxteth on Christmas Eve.

Just before 8.40pm on Wednesday 24 December 2025, it was reported that a black Ford Puma and a grey Audi A4 were involved in a collision at the junction of East Lancashire and Stonebridge Lane.

Stephen Jones, 33, from Bootle, who was driving the Ford Puma, was taken to hospital with significant injuries and sadly passed away on Saturday 3 January. His family continue to be supported by specially trained family liaison officers at this tragic time.

A 34-year-old woman, who is Stephen’s partner, remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital. Their eight-year-old son suffered minor injuries and is being cared for by his wider family. 

Stephen’s family today (Monday 5 January) issued the following tribute:

“Stephen was a loving son, brother, partner, uncle but most importantly a dad, a role that meant the world to him.

“A friend and a lifelong Everton supporter who was filled to his core with a passion to help people. His love for coaching children’s grassroot football meant he made a difference in so many lives. Stephen’s death will leave a void for many people that won’t ever be filled.

“He will be missed deeply but loved forever and always in our hearts.”

A 32-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested at the scene. He has been bailed with conditions and is under investigation for the offences of causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs. The investigation is continuing and enquiries are ongoing.

Detective Sergeant Simon Duffy from our Serious Collision Investigation unit said:

“Our thoughts remain with Stephen’s family at this tragic time. We will continue to support them throughout this investigation and seek to provide the answers that they need.

“Stephen’s family and friends are devastated. Stephen was clearly loved by those closest to him and his loss is felt much wider across the local area due to his involvement in coaching children’s football.

“Although a man has been arrested, this is a fast moving investigation with numerous lines of enquiry being followed. Eye witness accounts and dashcam are key to the investigation and I would urge anyone travelling in the area of the M57 or the East Lancashire Road, at around 8.30pm on Christmas Eve, to contact my team as soon as possible.  

“I would also like to thank members of the public that stopped at the scene, to provide first aid and assisted the emergency services.”

Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC, contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747, or email SCIU@merseyside.police.uk quoting reference number 25001049356.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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