Police are continuing to investigate the death of a much-loved former teacher and football manager who died after being hit by a lorry. An inquest into the death of John Patrick McCafferty, also known as Paddy, was opened at Rochdale Coroners Court this morning (March 28).
The court heard Mr McCafferty, 76, had been crossing Radcliffe New Road at the junction of Bury New Road in Whitefield before his death on March 15. Emma Campbell, police coroners officer at Greater Manchester Police, said: "He successfully managed to cross one side of the road and waited on the island.
"He has gone to cross over the other side of the road and has sadly been struck by a HGV." Ms Campbell told the court Mr McCafferty had been formally identified by police at 9.09pm after checking his driving licence.
She added that an investigation by GMP's serious collision investigation unit is 'ongoing'. Michael Salt, assistant coroner for North Manchester, told the hearing that a medical cause of Mr McCafferty's death had been given as 'multiple injuries'.
Mr McCafferty's inquest will follow the conclusion of GMP's investigation. "Clearly an inquest is going to be needed," Mr Salt said.
"There is still the question of criminal charges to be decided and therefore I will not set a date. The matter will be reviewed in due course."
The court heard Mc McCafferty was born in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland, was married and lived in Whitefield. Prestwich Heys AFC paid tribute to the club's former manager and match official in a statement following his death.
The club said Mr McCafferty had also worked as a teacher at Stand Grammar School, was well-known on the local football scene and 'had time for everyone'. Heys have since announced Mr McCafferty's funeral will take place on Wednesday, April 12, at Radcliffe Crematorium from 12.30pm.
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