An elderly pair perished in their car just days prior to their 54th wedding anniversary as Liverpool’s wastewater treatment system was unable to handle the intense downpour, according to investigators.
Elaine and Philip Marco, aged 76 and 77, were trying to navigate under a bridge in the Mossley Hill region when the roadway unexpectedly became inundated in August 2023.
Observers reported seeing a ‘geyser of water’ erupting from a dislodged manhole cover, as stated in an independent report released by Liverpool City Council on Monday.
‘The sheer force of the water surging from the public sewer generated an almost tidal reaction within the floodwaters,’ the report indicated.
The floodwaters subsequently escalated ‘very rapidly’, leaving the Marcos with no opportunity for escape, it added.
Before their tragic passing, emergency workers had received four previous calls concerning vehicles becoming submerged at the same location during flooding earlier that year.
In two instances, individuals required rescue from their automobiles.
United Utilities was aware of the increase in incidents and conducted an investigation.
Their internal findings identified a ‘backflow of the sewer system’ as the culprit and concluded that the ‘combined sewer infrastructure in the area is incapable of managing the amount of rainfall that occurs within a brief time frame’.
The independent report recommended that United Utilities, the council, and Network Rail, which oversees the bridge, collaborate to devise a lasting solution to the problem.
Since the tragedy involving the Marcos, Liverpool City Council has implemented measures including sensors for early alerts of rising water levels, CCTV surveillance, appropriate signage, and road barriers.
In a statement released after their passing, the Marco family expressed that their ‘sole solace’ was knowing that the couple passed away together.
Friends characterized them as a ‘kind-hearted and generous’ duo whose catering business was well-loved in their local Jewish community.
United Utilities remarked: ‘Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are extended to the family and friends of Elaine and Philip Marco, and we offer our deepest sympathies to them.
‘We engaged fully in this investigation into the flooding at Queens Drive and will persist in collaborating with all agencies influencing surface and groundwater in this area, aiming to enhance drainage at this site and throughout the broader city region.’
Reach out to our news team by sending us an email at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For additional stories like this, visit our news page.
