Heartbreak in Liverpool after cherished brother Martin O’Donovan killed in suspected targeted car attack

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A community is in mourning after Martin O’Donovan, described as a “loving, caring, fun, and intelligent son, brother and uncle who would light up any room with his humour and presence,” lost his life in a tragic incident on Stonyhurst Road in Woolton, Liverpool.

Emergency services responded late on Friday night after reports that a car had been driven at Mr.
O’Donovan, 46, who was known for his motto “keep smiling” and his devotion to family and friends; despite being rushed to hospital, he died from his injuries.

Police quickly arrested Stephen Bates, 41, of Herondale Road, Mossley Hill, at the scene, charging him with murder and remanding him into custody ahead of his court appearance at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, as forensic teams continued their investigation and local residents recounted hearing a disturbance and seeing emergency vehicles arrive.

Mr.O’Donovan’s family, still processing the loss, shared: “He was an accomplished engineer and a skilled outdoorsman — well-read, well-travelled and full of light.

His wonderfully joyous spirit will live on in everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

We are devastated that he has been taken from us in such cruel and senseless circumstances, and as we process such an overwhelming loss, we take solace in the fact that he will always be remembered for the remarkable man that he was.”

Detective Inspector Katie Coote stated, “Our thoughts remain with his family during this tragic time,” noting that the family is being supported by specially trained officers, while Merseyside Police continue to appeal for information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident, urging the public to reach out via social media, their website, or by calling 101, as the investigation remains ongoing and the community reflects on the impact of road-related violence, which according to the Department for Transport, resulted in over 1,600 fatalities across the UK in 2023, underscoring the ongoing need for public awareness and safety measures.