Some moments in life hit you harder than others. Four years ago, Gareth ‘Gaz’ Powell was taken too soon in a tragic accident near Haydock Island. His family opens up about the enduring pain, the loving memories, and a surprising thought they have for the other person involved. What would you want others to remember about your loved ones?

Four years have passed since the tragic death of Gareth Powell, yet for his family, the pain of his loss remains as raw as if it were yesterday. Known affectionately as Gaz to his loved ones, his life was abruptly cut short following a devastating car accident near Haydock Island, an event that continues to cast a long shadow over those who cherished him. This profound sense of grief and enduring memory underscores the lasting impact of such unforeseen tragedies on communities and families.

The fatal incident occurred on Monday, August 23, 2021, around 5:30 PM, when Gareth was struck by a vehicle on the East Lancashire Road. The scene near Haydock Island quickly became one of desperate urgency, leading to Gareth being airlifted to hospital with severe injuries. Despite the swift medical intervention, the beloved Whiston native sadly succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family “numb” with shock and sorrow.

Gareth Powell was a vibrant soul, a “caring, funny man” whose presence lit up the lives of those around him. Born in Whiston, he dedicated much of his leisure time to sports, playing for both Haydock Cricket Club and Hockey Club. Beyond the fields, Gaz found joy in music, often strumming his guitar and attending band concerts with his long-term partner, Naomi. His compassion extended to all creatures, reflecting a man who genuinely had time for everyone, especially animals.

The news of Gaz’s death delivered a crushing blow to his sister, Emma, and indeed to everyone who knew him. Emma vividly recalls the moment her world shifted – a phone call from Naomi, followed by the sight of a police officer in their living room, signaling an irreversible change. This immediate aftermath plunged the family into a period of profound shock and disbelief, trying to process the sudden void left by Gareth’s absence.

Crucially, the rapid response of the North West Air Ambulance played a vital role, giving Gareth’s family the invaluable opportunity to be by his side in his final hours. Emma gratefully recounted how the air ambulance’s efficiency provided them with “quite a while with him,” allowing for multiple scans and moments of presence, reaffirming that “he was very much alive thanks to the work from the North West Air Ambulance” before his ultimate passing.

Even with four years gone, the process of mourning for Gareth Powell remains an ongoing journey for his family. Emma articulates this complex reality, noting the peculiar sensation that it “feels like yesterday that I got the phone call… but it also feels like a long time since we saw him.” This duality of time, where moments of acute grief intermingle with the vast expanse of his absence, highlights the enduring nature of their sorrow.

In a poignant reflection, Emma also expressed empathy for the driver involved in the Haydock Island accident. Recognizing the potential for immense psychological burden, she shared her family’s hope: “He didn’t see Gaz and Gaz didn’t see him. As a family, we hope he’s got over it. It must be quite traumatic for him.” This sentiment underscores a remarkable capacity for understanding amidst their own profound loss, acknowledging the ripple effect of such a tragedy on all lives touched.