Jake Anthony JOHNSON · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 10 January 2014 I commenced an investigation into the death of Jake Anthony JOHNSON (age 22).

The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 10 September 2014.

The conclusion of the inquest was Accident. The medical cause of death was traumatic brain injury.

Jake suffered from autistic spectrum disorder with symptoms suggestive of Asperger’s syndrome. This condition led him to establish various lifestyle routines. One such routine was that Jake regularly went off on long walks, often alone.

On the afternoon of 6 January 2014 he went walking alone. He told his family that he was planning to explore a new walking route but he did not say where he would be going.

At approximately 5.45 pm he was seen to run across the Manchester-bound carriageway of the M56 close to marker post 43/9 near Junction 12. He was struck by a lorry. He sustained injuries, including a traumatic brain injury which proved fatal.

Jake had apparently gained access to the M56 via a set of steps near a culvert / bridge support structure below the motorway. The steps were not closed off and were easily accessible.

A representative of the Highways Agency ████████ gave evidence at the inquest. He stated that the original purpose of the steps was to permit access by engineers, not the general public. He added that the steps are now redundant, the engineer access no longer being required.

████████ went on to say that there is long standing damage / deterioration to parts of the timber fencing along this section of the motorway boundary close to the M56.

████████ also stated that there are no signs in place warning the public of danger due to the close proximity of the motorway.

I heard evidence from Jake’s family that there is a children’s playground in reasonably close proximity to the area in question.

1. The steps afford open access to the M56 motorway (although their original design purpose is seemingly now redundant);

2. Part of the boundary fencing in the vicinity of the steps is damaged or in a state of disrepair;

3. There are no signs in place warning the public of danger, due to the proximity of the motorway;

4. I am told that there is a children’s play area in the vicinity.