Family of couple who died in car trapped in floods release emotional statement

01 September 2023 , 16:51

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The family of Elaine and Philip Marco have paid tribute to the couple (Image: PA)

The family of a couple who died trapped in their car during a flash flood have broken their silence and released a heartbreaking statement.

Their family has now paid tribute to the pair, describing them as "loving, generous and kind-hearted".

"On behalf of the Marco family, we would like to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the emergency services and members of the public who came to the assistance of our beloved Elaine and Philip," they said. "The messages of support and the kind gestures we have received from our family, friends, and the wider Liverpool community will be forever appreciated.

"Elaine and Philip were the most loving, generous and kind-hearted parents and grandparents and we are shocked and heartbroken with their sudden passing under such tragic circumstances. May their memory be a blessing."

Floral tributes left at the scene on Queens Drive, Mossley Hill (Liverpool Echo)

The family asked for anyone with any information to help with the investigation to contact Merseyside Police, Liverpool Echo reports. An inquest into the couple's death was opened and adjourned today at Gerard Majella Courthouse. Merseyside Police are leading an investigation into the circumstances of the deaths of Elaine and Philip and coroner Andre Rebello described this as a "complex investigation".

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He adjourned the inquest until February 27, 2024, adding: "It all depends on what the investigation uncovers in terms of evidence as to how the inquest proceeds." He added: "We are led by evidence, rather than speculation, rumour or gossip and it is important that we leave the police to get on with their enquiries."

Adding that there are "clearly questions to answer" for a number of authorities, Mr Rebello said: "If there are matters that mean this will go into the criminal jurisdiction then so be it."

Police were joined at the scene on Mossley Hill by the North West Ambulance Service and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. Police located the body of Elaine Marco and began CPR on her. She was then taken to the Royal Liverpool Hospital where she was sadly pronounced dead at 10.50pm.

The inquest heard that the emergency services then continued the search of the flooded road and located the vehicle submerged in the water. It wasn't until 10.47pm that Mr Marco's body was discovered.

He too was treated at the scene before being taken to the same hospital and was sadly pronounced dead at 11.20pm. Both bodies were initially identified by Philip and Elaine's son Simon Marco and later their other son Joshua Marco.

Those with Information are urged to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook quoting reference 23000807137.

Liam Thorp