Man charged over deaths of four people who were killed after car crashed into lamppost in Huyton

A man has been charged over the deaths of four people who were killed when a car crashed into a lamppost.

Jack Diggle, 23, Craig Shackleton-Brady, 26, Andrew Roberts, 24, and Benjamin Dooley, 23, were all pronounced dead at the scene in Huyton, Merseyside, in the early hours of 24 July.

Police were called to reports that a black Seat Cupra had crashed into a lamppost on East Prescot Road.

At the time, police said a 27-year-old man who was a passenger in the car survived and was taken to hospital.

In an update on Friday, Merseyside Police said James Diggle, 27, has been charged with four counts of aiding and abetting causing death by dangerous driving.

Diggle, of Alundale Road in West Derby, will appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Saturday.

"Our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of the four men who tragically lost their lives and we ask that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time," police said.

The families of the four victims released tributes after their deaths.

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Mr Shackleton-Brady was described as a "devoted and loving father" to his two children and as a "loyal and generous" man, who "will be remembered for his kind heart, his devotion to his family, and the joy he brought to others", his family said.

Mr Diggle, who was a proud Everton supporter, was described by his family as "kind, quiet, thoughtful and loving".

His mother said: "The loss of Jack has left a hole in our lives and in our hearts that can never be filled. We will carry him with us every day and miss him for the rest of our lives.

"Our Jack, our gentle giant, we love you beyond words and will love you forever. Rest peacefully, son."

Mr Dooley's mother, Kerry, said her life had been "ripped apart". She said her son was "the kindest person" she knew and that he had "a heart of gold". Mr Dooley's sister, Demi, added that her brother's death felt like "a terrible dream".

Mr Roberts' family said: "Our worlds are shattered, and we just keep waiting for you to come through the door saying this is all a dream, but it's never going to come.

"Life can change in an instant, and Andrew's passing is a painful reminder of how precious every moment really is."

(c) Sky News 2026: Man charged over deaths of four people who were killed after car crashed into lamppost in Huy