‘Thinking of you’: Floral tributes and wreath left outside gates of Everton stadium for construction worker, 26, who died in tragic ‘heavy machinery’ incident at site
- Jones was a lifelong Everton fan who died after an incident at the stadium site
Floral tributes have been left outside Everton stadium for a construction worker and lifelong fan who died tragically in a ‘heavy machinery’ incident on the site.
Michael Jones, 26, from Kirkby, Merseyside, was taken to Aintree Hospital on Monday where he died despite medics’ best efforts after the incident.
In an emotional statement released by his family today, it was revealed he was a lifelong Everton supporter who was ‘so happy’ to be working on the new stadium.
Following the news of Michael’s death, a floral wreath with blue ribbon and flowers has been left outside one of the gates to the new venue, the ECHO reported.
A note was left with the flower arrangement which read: ‘Thinking of you mate. From Bennetts and Craft. RIP.’
Handout from Merseyside Police shows Michael Jones, who was killed in an incident at Bramley Moore Dock in Liverpool on Monday
A tribute to the construction worker Michael Jones who died at Bramley Moore Dock is placed, reading ‘Thinking of you mate. From Bennetts and Craft. RIP.’
Emergency services were called to reports that a worker had been injured while working on Monday.
He was rushed to Aintree hospital with severe head injuries but was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
A post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death is due to take place tomorrow.
A statement from Michael’s family said: ‘The family would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support.
‘It is with our greatest sadness that our beloved son, brother, uncle and friend Michael has sadly passed away.
‘He was a lifelong blue who was so happy to be working on the new stadium.
‘We want to thank the NHS staff and work colleagues who did their best for Michael.
‘He will be missed beyond words.’
Tributes have flooded in from people across Merseyside, with Everton fans also sharing their own pictures with Michael.
One fan and friend, Barry Murray posted pictures of them both at Everton matches.
He said: ‘Michael Jones RIP. Travelled all around the world with you and our Mick and my three lads.
‘Saw you grow into a lovely caring, generous lad. RIP till we meet again.’
Commenting on the Liverpool ECHO, one user said: ‘So sad, working on his dream job. Blues need a plaque or similar in honour at the new ground, RIP mate, condolences to the family.’
On Facebook, Julie Kennedy commented: ‘Absolutely heartbreaking. You will always be remembered by us blues. RIP.’ Another Daniel Mckevitt added: ‘God bless you and all your family and friends you will always be remembered by your Everton.’
On X, formerly known as Twitter, another user, Vivienne added: ‘Devastated for all the family. One of the nicest lads you’d ever meet, RIP Michael.’ While an EFC fan account said: ‘Would be a nice touch if they do a plaque for Michael at Bramley Moore.’
Everton released a statement saying everyone at the club was ‘heartbroken’ and sent condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. They also confirmed that work has been stopped at the site until further notice.
Everton Football Club said: ‘Everyone at Everton Football Club is heartbroken by the news a male worker has died following an incident at the Everton Stadium site at Bramley-Moore Dock.
‘The thoughts and condolences of everyone connected with Everton are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this unimaginably sad time.’
A tribute to the construction worker Michael Jones who died at Bramley Moore Dock is left outside the gates of the new stadium site
Tributes have poured in for Michael, who died yesterday after a ‘heavy machinery’ incident at the Bramley Moore Dock site
Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby, expressed his condolences for the tragic incident
Liverpool FC tweeted a message of support alongside blue and red hearts together for the rival football teams
They added: ‘Stadium contractor Laing O’Rourke will cooperate with Merseyside Police and the Health and Safety Executive in their investigations.’
Merseyside Police is working jointly with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and enquiries remain ongoing into the incident.
Source: Read Full Article