15-year-old Israel Iyabor tragically died after falling from a bridge over the M60 motorway in July, with emergency services called to the scene.
An inquest has been launched into the death of a 15-year-old boy who tragically passed away on the M60 last month.
Israel Iyabor, from Middleton, sadly lost his life after emergency services rushed to junction 20 of the motorway, near Blackley, on July 20. Greater Manchester Police revealed they had been alerted to the scene following reports of a ‘concern for welfare’. The incident rose to prominence with many fans of Oasis having been on their way to a concert by the band at the time.
The ring road was closed at around 4.30pm as emergency services dealt with what transport agencies described as a ‘serious road traffic collision’. An inquest into his death commenced yesterday (August 7) at Rochdale Coroner’s Court. It comes after a schoolboy, 13, has both legs amputated after ‘getting cramp’ at sports camp.
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During a brief hearing, Assistant Coroner Julie Mitchell confirmed that he had been living in Middleton and was 15 years old at the time of his death. The court was told that Israel was born in Italy and that his family relocated to the UK ten years ago.
“A lady driving across the bridge on July 20 at Junction 20 on the M60 saw a young man fall from the railings,” Ms Mitchell said.
The teen was subsequently confirmed to be Israel, who was formally identified by his father the following day, reports the Manchester Evening News.
A post-mortem examination revealed he had died from ‘catastrophic brain injury’.
The full inquest hearing has been scheduled for February 4, 2026, with the coroner requesting reports from a number of institutions including Israel’s school and the local mental health services.
The local community has been left in mourning following the news of his death, with dozens of floral tributes laid near the motorway junction where it happened.
Sarah, Israel’s sister, shared with the Manchester Evening News how the family were ‘hysterical’ upon hearing the devastating news. “When police broke the news we were very emotional. It was such a shock,” she expressed.
“Even now I am still shocked and trying to wrap my head around the whole thing. I feel people should check in on their loved ones – mental thing is a real thing. A lot of people do struggle. And you never know what someone is going through.”
To cover the costs of Israel’s funeral, the family have set up a GoFundMe page which is close to reaching its goal.
Israel was an avid footballer, playing for two local clubs, Manchester Panthers and Hyde United – the latter held a minute’s silence in honour of Israel at their match against Curzon Ashton on July 22.
A coach from Hyde United’s junior football team also posted a heartfelt tribute to him on social media on July 21.
“R.I.P Israel – totally heartbroken to have lost one of our own in such tragic circumstances,” Dan Bollington penned on Facebook.
“He was true heartbeat and popular member of the team, a true inspiration who had his whole life ahead of him. Never did anybody see what was to come. Gone but never to be forgotten, RIP Israel.”
He further added: “If anybody is ever struggling, please speak out. I will always be here and so will so many others to help you through any difficulties you may have.”
If you or anyone you know is struggling with their mental health, you can contact NHS 111 at any time to access support. To get urgent mental health support, call 111 and select option 2.
Visit the NHS 111 England and NHS 111 Wales websites to learn more, including other ways to get support.
