Police have issued an investigation update after a 'devoted' father tragically died in a crash on the East Lancs Road. Rob Campbell, 40, was riding a motorbike that collided with a lorry on the A580 in Haydock, St Helens, at around 11pm on Monday, June 8.
Details of the Incident
Officers believe two lorries were involved in the incident. One directly collided with Mr Campbell's motorbike, while the other was indirectly involved in the circumstances leading up to the crash. Mr Campbell sadly died at the scene.
A 28-year-old man from Widnes, Cheshire, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving, driving while unfit through drugs, and driving a motor vehicle with a proportion of a controlled drug above the specified limit. A 38-year-old man from Carmarthenshire, Wales, was also arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving and driving while unfit through drugs.
Investigation Update
Merseyside Police confirmed that both men have been released under investigation pending further enquiries. Detective Sergeant Andy Roper from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: "Our thoughts are with the family at this incredibly difficult time. An investigation is ongoing and I would appeal to anyone who was travelling in the area at the time to check their dashcam footage for anything that may assist our enquiries."
Family Tribute
In a tribute, Mr Campbell's family described the father-of-three as 'a big-hearted man whose presence made life better'. They said: "Rob was a devoted dad to his three beautiful girls and there was never any doubt that they were his whole world. Everything he did, every choice he made, was rooted in his love for them. Being their dad wasn't just part of his life, it was the very centre of it."
They added: "He had a kind and gentle heart, the sort of person who made others feel seen, valued, and cared for. He cherished life in a way that was rare, holding onto moments, memories, and the people he loved with a sentimentality that made him who he was. He felt deeply, loved deeply, and gave deeply. Music was one of his great joys, a constant companion that lifted him, grounded him, and filled his days with rhythm and meaning."
"He leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and kindness. A big-hearted man whose presence made life better for the people lucky enough to know him. His girls will forever carry his love with them and all of us who knew him will carry the memory of his gentle spirit. Gone far too soon, but never forgotten."
Appeal for Witnesses
Detective Sergeant Roper also said: "Front and rear dashcams can often capture vital evidence without the driver realising. We are particularly keen to review any footage showing either of the HGVs or the motorcycle involved in order to help establish exactly what happened. To assist potential witnesses, I can confirm that both HGVs believed to be involved were towing white trailers. One cab was dark in colour and the other was white with black stripes."
"Although two people have been arrested, we are still very keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or saw the vehicles beforehand. No matter how insignificant the information may seem, it could prove vital to our investigation."
Anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage is asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0151 777 5747 or email SCIU@merseyside.police.uk, quoting incident reference 26000456942. Alternatively, message @MerPolCC on X or Facebook, or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
