Driver saw son leap to his death from cab

A lorry driver saw his son jump from his cab and leap 140ft to his death from a motorway bridge.

Matthew Smith, 36, from Elland, West Yorkshire, was a passenger in his father’s HGV and leapt out as it slowed down on to the hard shoulder of the M62.

Father-of-one Matthew, who played for amateur rugby league side Siddall, then climbed over railings before falling from Rakewood viaduct, near Hollingworth Lake, Littleborough.

Police found his body on farmland underneath the bridge. It’s believed Mr Smith was becoming increasingly distressed when his father decided to pull the lorry over. It is reported that the shocked father tried to stop him jumping. Matthew leaves a three-year-old daughter.

The horrific accident happened at 5.50am on Friday (8 October 2010) on the westbound carriageway between junction 22, Saddleworth, and junction 21, Milnrow. The inside lane was closed for around four hours causing severe delays.

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances but have asked witnesses to contact them on 0161-856 4644.