The heartbroken family of a “kind, loving and caring” dad from Wigan have spoken of their devastation.
Tributes have poured in for Paul Maliczewski, known as ‘Big Paul’, who died following a crash on the M6 on Monday morning (August 17).
The 62-year-old, from Ashton-in-Makerfield, was driving a Mitsubishi Shogun when it collided with two lorries near junction 23 at around 11am.
Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene. He leaves behind a partner and two daughters.
In an emotional statement, his family revealed Paul had not long retired after working as a mechanic for more than 40 years.
They said: “We can confirm that the victim of Monday's tragic collision is Paul Maliczewski, aged 62, from Ashton-in-Makerfield, known as Big Paul.
“Paul was married and a father to two grown up daughters whom he adored.
“He was a well-known mechanic at Park Motors Wigan where he worked for over 40 years, before recently retiring.
“Paul was as a kind, loving, caring man.”
Police confirmed an investigation into the fatal collision is underway.
In a statement, Merseyside Police said: “Shortly before 11am, it was reported that a Mitsubishi Shogun and two lorries had been in collision on the M6 near Junction 23 (Haydock).
“Emergency services attended and the driver of the Mitsubishi, a 62-year-old man, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
“The man's next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers at this time.
“The drivers of the lorries stopped at the scene to assist with enquiries.
Officers are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision, or has any CCTV or dashcam footage and would ask anyone with information to contact @MerPolCC, 101 quoting reference 20000493128 or the Roads Policing Unit on 0151 777 5747.
