Headteacher Michael Mullins killed in Altrincham bike crash
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
TL;DR
- Michael Mullins Killed: 56-year-old headteacher of Stretford Grammar School died in a car collision while cycling near Altrincham on April 20.
- Four Arrests Made: Three men and one woman arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after the vehicle failed to stop.
- Community Mourns: Family, school staff, and MP pay tribute to Mullins's dedication as father, headteacher, and community figure.
The story at a glance
Michael Mullins, 56-year-old headteacher of Stretford Grammar School for 17 years, died after a car hit him while cycling on Paddock Lane in Altrincham around 6pm on April 20. His family from Weaverham issued a tribute through Greater Manchester Police (GMP), and the school confirmed the news to parents. GMP arrested four people after the car failed to stop. This is reported now due to the fresh arrests and tributes following the collision.
Key points
- Collision occurred at Paddock Lane junction with Warburton Lane and Dunham Road in Altrincham at around 6.10pm on April 20.
- Mullins lived with his family in Weaverham, Northwich, and was cycling home from school.
- Vehicle involved failed to stop; three men and one woman arrested yesterday and today, all in custody.
- Deputy headteacher Liz Baxter wrote to parents about the "sad and devastating news" and pledged to continue Mullins's legacy.
- Stretford and Urmston MP Andrew Western called Mullins a "lovely man" focused on children's needs.
- GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit appeals for dashcam footage or information, quoting incident 2771 of 20.04.26.
Details and context
Mullins had led Stretford Grammar School in Trafford for 17 years, building strong community ties noted by staff and the MP. His family described him as a devoted dad, husband, and especially grandad, sharing a memory of getting lost in Washington D.C. They requested privacy amid their grief.
The crash response involved emergency services treating Mullins at the scene, but he died from injuries. GMP supports the family with specialist officers and is investigating the hit-and-run.
Key quotes
Family statement: "Our loving Dad, husband, Brother-in-law, ‘Diddy’, Uncle, Son in law, passed away last night after being knocked off his bike. [...] We will love him forever, to Saturn and beyond."
Liz Baxter, deputy headteacher: "As a community built up so strongly over so many years by our dear friend and colleague, Michael, we will all support each other during this awful period."
Why it matters
The death of a long-serving headteacher highlights road safety risks for cyclists and the impact on school communities in Greater Manchester. It affects Stretford Grammar School's staff, students, and parents, who must navigate leadership loss while upholding his work. Watch GMP's investigation updates and any charges, as details on the crash remain under inquiry.
FAQ
Q: Where and when did the collision involving Michael Mullins happen?
A: The crash occurred at around 6.10pm on April 20 on Paddock Lane at the junction with Warburton Lane and Dunham Road in Altrincham. A car hit Mullins while he was cycling, and the vehicle failed to stop. He died from his injuries despite treatment at the scene.
Q: What is the police response to Michael Mullins's death?
A: Greater Manchester Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit arrested three men and one woman on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving; all remain in custody. They are appealing for dashcam footage or information, quoting incident 2771 of 20.04.26. Contact options include 0161 856 4741, 101, LiveChat, or Crimestoppers anonymously.
Q: How has Stretford Grammar School responded?
A: Deputy headteacher Liz Baxter informed parents of the "sad and devastating news" in a letter, noting Mullins died on his way home from school. She emphasized community support and commitment to continue his legacy. Staff highlighted irreplaceable relationships built over years.
Q: Who was Michael Mullins and what tributes were made?
A: Mullins, 56, was headteacher of Stretford Grammar School for 17 years and lived in Weaverham. His family praised him as a devoted family man and grandad; MP Andrew Western called him a "lovely man" with children's needs at heart.