Police are investigating the crash that killed a 35-year-old man who was trying to track down the occupants of two cars

Police have launched an urgent appeal for help to find the occupants of two cars who may have information about a crash which killed a 35-year-old man.

Jonathan ‘Jonny’ Mennell, 35, was pronounced dead at the scene after a white Ford Kuga hit a tree in Newton-le-Willows on Monday night (June 10).

In a heartbreaking tribute today (Wednesday), Jonny’s family described him as a “friend to all” who “would make people laugh and smile”.

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Southworth Road was closed on Tuesday following the crash near Lowton, Wigan. The police were called to the scene, Monday evening, at 10:30 p.m.

They received reports that the Ford had been traveling along Southworth Road towards Church Street when it left the road and hit a tree near the junction with Mere Road.

Jonny was tragically pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin were informed yesterday. A second man, aged in his 30s, was also injured. Merseyside Police do not believe any other vehicles were involved in the collision.

A 35-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit by drink or drugs. He has now been released on parole pending further enquiries.

Merseyside Police today issued a fresh appeal for witnesses and are looking to trace the occupants of two cars who may have information.

Detective Sergeant Andy Roper, Senior Investigating Officer from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Our thoughts and condolences remain with Jonathan’s family and friends at this difficult time and our work to provide them with answers continues.

“Today we would like to make a further appeal for any witnesses to the collision or the events leading up to it.

“I am particularly keen to speak to the occupants of two specific vehicles who were in the area at the time, who may not have realized that this happened shortly after they passed the Ford Kuga.

“The first of these is a white Ford Puma which was traveling on the A572 Newton Road, close to the Travelers Rest pub, and was heading in the general direction of Newton-le-Willows when it passed the Ford Kuga.

“The second is a small white or silver car traveling on the A572 Southworth Road, heading away from Newton-le-Willows when it passed a Ford Kuga traveling in the opposite direction close to the junction with Warren Drive.

“Both cases would have taken place around 10.30 p.m., shortly before the collision. We would be grateful if the occupants of these vehicles could get in touch with our team as soon as possible. Their information or dashboard could be vital and they may not have realized the significance of the Ford Kuga until now.

“Also, if anyone else saw the incident or the Ford Kuga being driven in the area shortly before 10.30pm, please check your devices and come forward with any information.”

Anyone who thinks they can identify the vehicles, anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone who has any dash cam footage of the collision is asked to call Merseyside Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747, email SCIU@ merseyside.police. uk, or DM @MerPolCC on Twitter quoting reference 24000517191.