‘He waited 30-hours to call 999, it should never have been allowed to happen’

Prestwich: It’s been almost four years since Kimberley McAssey tragically passed away, and her family is still searching for answers. They’re pushing for a law change to prevent others from facing the same heartache.

Kimberley died on February 20, 2021, but the emergency services weren’t called for a shocking 30 hours. This delay meant they couldn’t determine her cause of death, leaving her family in the dark.

Now, they’re rallying for ‘Kimberley’s Law’ to make it a crime to delay notifying emergency services in similar situations. Her sister, Rea, hopes this will stop other families from going through such pain.

During the inquest, it was revealed that Kimberley had been with Ryan Sheridan, who didn’t call for help. Instead, it was his mother who finally made the call the next day.

Mr. Sheridan was on bail for assault at the time and admitted he panicked, fearing he’d get in trouble. The coroner noted that his delay was a conscious choice, which is just heartbreaking.

Rea expressed how crucial it was to have contacted emergency services right away. The delay meant they couldn’t figure out what happened to Kimberley, and that’s just not right.

Her family shared how devastating it was to see Kimberley’s body in such a state. Her mother recalled the undertaker saying he had never seen anything like it in his 30 years of work.

Kimberley was a beloved mother and sister, and her absence has left a huge void in their lives. Her sister Katie remembered her infectious laugh and beautiful smile, saying life feels empty without her.

Mr. Sheridan, who was later convicted for drug-related offenses, didn’t even show up for the inquest. The coroner criticized his actions, calling them cowardly and selfish.

The family’s petition to make it a criminal offense to delay calling for help has already gathered over 1,100 signatures. They’re determined to see change and honor Kimberley’s memory.