Skip to content

Murder charge after head teacher knocked off bike and killed

Paul BurnellNorth West
News imageFamily handout Michael Mullins is pictured next to his two young children. All three are smiling at the camera. Family handout
Michael Mullins had been the head teacher of Stretford Grammar School for 17 years

A man has been charged with the murder of a head teacher who was knocked down and killed while cycling home from work.

Michael Mullins, 56, who had been at the helm of Stretford Grammar School in Greater Manchester for 17 years, died in the crash involving a car on Paddock Lane in Altrincham on Monday evening.

Simon Richardson, 34, of no fixed address, has been charged with murder, manslaughter, dangerous driving, failing to stop, and driving without insurance, Greater Manchester Police said.

He was due to appear before Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court later on Friday.

Two other men and a woman who were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving have been released on bail pending further inquiries, the force added.

In an earlier tribute, his family said: "Our loving dad, husband, brother-in-law, 'Diddy', uncle and son-in-law passed away after being knocked off his bike.

"A gap has been left in our hearts and within his role as a head teacher of Stretford Grammar school."

News imageGoogle Maps A road with trees on either side is leading to a large building with a number of cars parked in front. Google Maps
Michael Mullins had been the head teacher of Stretford Grammar School for 17 years

"He was devoted to his family, and our lives will never be the same," they continued.

"Our Dad gave us fantastic memories growing up, including a trip getting lost at night around Washington DC, but it was in his role as a grandad where he truly excelled.

"Our love and memories of Michael will know no limits.

"We will love him forever, to Saturn and beyond."

Detectives are continuing to urge anyone with information or dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.