Our Hearts Are Broken’: Family Pays Tribute to 16-Year-Old Joshua Myers Found Dead on Railway Tracks
A grieving family has paid heartfelt tribute to Joshua Myers, one of two 16-year-old boys tragically found dead on railway tracks near Poynton station on Thursday, 3 July.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of casualties on the line, but despite the efforts of paramedics, both teenagers were pronounced dead at the scene.
“He Had No Idea How Loved He Was”
Joshua’s devastated parents released a statement expressing their unimaginable grief and celebrating the life of their “incredibly precious” son.
“Our son, Josh, is incredibly precious to us and we are so proud to be his Mum and Dad.
He had no idea how loved he was. Our hearts have been broken, and the world seems incomplete without him. He will stay in our hearts forever.”
They described Joshua as a thoughtful, kind, and intelligent young man with a passion for computer games, badminton, running, and family holidays.
“He was the best big brother ever, who loved his big family. His warm sense of humour always shone through all of his activities.
Many of his favourite days were when he was relaxing and playing whilst on holiday—bodyboarding, swimming and looking after his younger siblings.”
They also thanked the public for the overwhelming support shown in recent days:
“Our family would like to thank everyone for all of the wonderfully kind thoughts and messages which we have received. Thank you to everyone, too, for respecting our privacy at this very sad time.”
Investigation Ongoing
British Transport Police (BTP) have confirmed that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths, though they are not being treated as suspicious at this stage.
A spokesperson for BTP said:
“We are continuing to carry out enquiries to establish the full facts of what happened. Our thoughts are with both families at this incredibly difficult time.”
Services on the line were temporarily suspended on Thursday to allow emergency teams to attend the scene.
Community Mourning
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Poynton and Greater Manchester community, with tributes pouring in online for both boys. Flowers, candles, and handwritten notes have begun appearing near the station in a growing memorial.
Support Resources:
If you or someone you know has been affected by this story, support is available:
- Childline: 0800 1111
- Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- youngminds.org.uk – mental health resources for teens and parents
