6 days ago
Teenage footballer who died in M60 tragedy pictured as sister pays tribute
Israel Iyabor, aged 15, died on the M60 in Manchester and now his sister has told how he was a "very protective person" who was a very talented footballer but "never took himself too seriously"
A sister has told of her "jokey and protective" 15-year-old brother in a tribute after he tragically died on a motorway.
Emergency services were called to a stretch of the M60 ring road around Manchester near junction 20 for Blackley last Sunday (July 20) but they could not save Israel Iyabor. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were called to reports of a "concern for welfare" and that a teenager, later confirmed to be Israel, died at the scene. His 17 year-old sister has now opened up on her family's grief after they launched an appeal to raise funds for his funeral. She described Israel as a "class clown" but a "very protective person."
"He was protective of those close to him and those he loved" she said. "He would do anything for them and to protect them. "He was also very light-hearted and jokey. He never took himself too seriously. At school he was known as the class clown."
Israel, from Middleton and who also has a 19-year-old brother, was a pupil at Co-op Academy North Manchester and was part of the youth setup at Hyde United FC. He also played for Manchester Panthers JFC.
"He was very talented at football, he also liked to box and liked to go to the gym and do taekwando" his sister said. "He was very athletic, very sporty."
His sister said that the family were 'hysterical' when they informed of the tragedy. "When police broke the news we were very emotional. It was such a shock."
She said Israel was very close to his mother who had been left bereft. "She couldn't believe it" she said, reported the Manchester Evening News. "She was so shocked. We all are. Even now I am still shocked and trying to wrap my head around the whole thing. I sometimes catch myself thinking about him, or something reminds me of him, and I get emotional."
"I feel people should check in on there loved ones" she added. "Mental thing is a real thing. A lot of people do struggle. And you never know what someone is going through." The family have now started a GoFundMe page as they seek to raise funds for the 'dignified burial that he deserves.'
The page says: "With heavy hearts, we share the devastating loss of Israel, who was a very integral part of the lives he touched. Israel was a son, brother and most importantly a friend. Israel would often be described as a very light hearted, jokey and full of ambition. He was a comedic and care free person.
"He relentlessly wore his heart on his sleeve. He was a shoulder to cry for those around him. It's heartbreaking that he only had such a short but impactful and unforgettable time on earth with us. He had a deep love for sports, specifically martial arts and football, which he excelled at.
"He also had a deep devotion for his faith, actively participating in church and being involved within the youth sector at church. Although, his life came to an abrupt end, he touched many hearts whilst on earth. His death was shocking and unimaginable as he was such a big part of the community around him including his school, football team and friends and family.
"Many teachers, friends, family have been left distraught by his abrupt death. He was truly a shining start and his memory will live on in all the lives he touched. We are now reaching out for support asking to be able to provide him with the dignified farewell that he deserves.
"Our goal is to be able to fund the costs for his funeral, burial and memorial and support our family during such a devastating and distressing time. Any amount you can give, no matter how small, will make a difference in our life and he deeply appreciated. If you are unable to give please consider sharing this page to bring awareness."
Police have passed a file to the coroner with an inquest expected to be opened in due course. An array of flowers and football shirts have been left near the scene of the tragedy.
Hyde United held a minute's silence in his honour before their match against Curzon Ashton on Tuesday night. "Israel was more than just a talented young footballer — he was an influential, bubbly character whose energy, smile, and love for the game lit up every training session and matchday" the club said in a statement.
"His coaches describe him as an absolute joy to coach and a privilege to watch on the pitch. Hyde United sends its deepest condolences to Israel's family, friends, teammates, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by all at the club. Rest in peace, Israel."
