Widow of a man who was killed on the M60 in Manchester appeals for information on anniversary of his death

The widow of a man killed on the motorway in Manchester has appealed for information on the first anniversary of her husband’s death.

Joanne Tanswell has spoken of the loss of her “best friend, soulmate and husband” Stephen, who died following a collision on the M60 a year ago. Stephen, 45, was involved in a collision while on foot shortly after he had been on his way home in a taxi. Joanne is now desperately appealing for anyone who knows what happened to Stephen to come forward and help the police.

What happened to Stephen Tanswell?

Stephen was on foot on the M60 when he was involved in a collision on the clockwise side of the carriageway near junction five for Manchester and Didsbury at around 7.45pm on Thursday 16 December 2021.

Investigators from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have established that, prior to the collision with the Mini Cooper, Stephen had been on his way home in a taxi. The drivers of both vehicles have previously been spoken to.

Officers are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who saw or has dash cam footage of Stephen getting out of the taxi.

Anyone with information should contact GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741, quoting incident number 2777 for the date 16/12/21. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

What has Joanne said?

Joanne has paid emotional tribute to Stephen and urged anyone who can help police understand what happened to her husband to cause his death to come forward.

She said: “Stephen’s death was and still is a tragedy that never needed to happen. He was my best friend, soulmate and husband. We did everything together as a family and a couple.

“His untimely loss has left behind myself and our three young children, tearing apart our beautiful life and leaving myself and our children devastated. There are no words to describe the loss we have all encountered this past year.

“Stephen was irreplaceable not only for me, but to his children, Jacob, Oliver, Emily and all of our families. It is now a year since he was struck on the motorway and we are appealing as a family to help the police in bringing this matter to a conclusion.

“Were you travelling clockwise on the M60 at around 7.45pm on Thursday 16 December 2021? Did you see a vehicle on the hard shoulder just prior to junction five at this time? If you can help or even still have dashcam of that journey then please contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.”