The families of four young friends who died in a car crash in Huyton have paid emotional tributes to the men. Jack Diggle, 23, Benjamin Dooley, 23, Andrew Roberts, 24, and Craig Shackleton-Brady, 26, were killed instantly when their black Cupra Formentor left the road and struck a lamppost on Liverpool Road on July 24. Another passenger, a 27-year-old man, was taken to hospital in a stable condition.
Family tributes to Jack Diggle
Jack's family described him as 'kind, quiet, thoughtful and loving' and said he 'adored his family'. A lifelong Everton fan, he loved football, darts, and spending time with friends. He had been due to travel to Blackpool to watch the darts with them on Sunday. His mother said: 'Jack and I went out for a meal together on Thursday. It was such a lovely time, just mother and son. Little did I know it would be the last time we would spend together. Our Jack, our gentle giant, we love you beyond words and will love you forever. Rest peacefully, son.'
Benjamin Dooley remembered
Benjamin's mother, Kerry, called him 'my son, my world, my best friend'. She added: 'My life is ripped apart. I'm waiting for you to walk through the door and say, “You OK, Mum?” You were the kindest person I knew with a heart of gold. Fly high my baby boy. I love you.' His sister Demi said she had lost not only her brother but 'the one who always gave me advice and looked out for me'.
Andrew Roberts: 'Beautiful blue-eyed boy'
Andrew's family said they were 'at a complete loss for words', describing him as a kind-hearted man loved by many. His mother Linda paid tribute to her 'beautiful blue-eyed boy', saying: 'My life will never be the same with you not here. My heart will forever be broken.' His partner Kiera added: 'My Andrew, my best friend. You were my whole life, and I don't know how I'm going to cope without you.'
Craig Shackleton-Brady: Devoted father
Craig's family remembered him as 'a truly well-mannered family man' and a devoted father to his two children. They said he was known for his 'infectious laugh, generous nature and unwavering love for his family'. A proud Liverpool supporter, he also enjoyed darts and cage fighting. His family said: 'Above all, Craig will be remembered for his kind heart, his devotion to his family, and the joy he brought to others.'
Police investigation ongoing
Police continue to investigate the fatal collision. A black Seat Cupra heading from Liverpool towards Knowsley came off the road after hitting a lamppost. Residents reported hearing a loud bang around 1.45am. One woman told the Liverpool Echo: 'I was still awake, the bang was so loud I thought a lorry had overturned. I looked outside my window and there was smoke everywhere.' Others described being told to stay away by police.
Superintendent Paul Holden said: 'First and foremost our thoughts are with the family of the four men who sadly lost their lives. Their families have been informed and are being supported by our specially trained family liaison officers. This is a truly devastating moment for their families and loved ones, and it is now our priority to get answers for them on how the collision occurred.' He urged anyone with information or doorbell footage to contact police.
