The inquest into the death of a young father from Renfrewshire, who was tragically killed on an English motorway, has commenced as an online fundraiser in his memory surpasses its target. John Burns, aged 22, lost his life in a fatal collision on the M6 near Carlisle following a Celtic match against Hearts in Glasgow last month.
John, a father of one, was dropped off in Carlisle after taking the wrong bus post the football game. The inquest began at Cockermouth Coroners’ Court where it was revealed that John, a student of electrical engineering, was identified through his fingerprints. He was described as being “struck by a number of vehicles” while on the motorway.
The assistant coroner for Cumbria, Dr Nicholas Shaw, stated that the circumstances leading to the incident are still under investigation, and a full accident inquiry will be conducted. John, who was close to his 23rd birthday, leaves behind a young son. His mother, Marion Bell, and girlfriend, Rachael Mowles, had raised concerns after he failed to return home following the match.
John’s family had reported him last seen getting off a bus near Carlisle on the M6, with his phone switched off and no money with him. Tragically, they later discovered he was the pedestrian fatally struck on the motorway. The Celtic community and fellow supporters expressed shock and paid their respects to John, with calls made for a tribute at a recent match.
Following the incident, Cumbria police appealed for witnesses and dash-cam footage. An online fundraiser established for John’s family has collected nearly £7,000. The hearing was adjourned, and a full inquest is scheduled for a later date. The community continues to mourn the loss of John Burns, and support for his family remains strong.