“It is only because of the community he created and the strength that he gave us that we will continue in his name and carry out his wishes and his legacy” – Acting Headteacher Liz Baxter of Stretford Grammar School has paid tribute to Michael after a man has been sentenced for his murder.

Simon Richardson (16/05/1991), of no fixed abode, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years today (Monday 2 November 2026) after being found guilty of murder on Friday 30 October 2026 following a two-week trial at Manchester Minshull Street Court.

During sentencing, Mrs Baxter spoke of the man Michael was: “He was an inspirational leader informed by a moral imperative to improve students’ life chances through the best possible education.

In the weeks that following Mr Mullins death, the impact was felt across the community and Mrs Baxter spoke of this during her statement: “The students don’t have him standing on the front gate in the morning any longer, commenting on last night’s Liverpool match, chivvying them along with his catchphrase, “If you were about to miss a plane, you’d be running now”, his nicknames and the biscuits he would give out to students on a Friday.

“The staff don’t have him anymore in his office, with the door open, never too busy for a chat, a comforting word, help with a decision or some advice.

“Michael’s impact on Stretford Grammar School, on us, his community of students, staff, governors and parents was truly immeasurable.

“His loss has been unbearable for every single one of us at school, and it is only because of the community he created and the strength that he gave us that we will continue in his name and carry out his wishes and his legacy.

“We will never forget him; we will remember and honour him as he was, our beloved Headteacher, colleague and dear friend.”

The court had previously heard during the trial how Mr Mullins was cycling home from his job as headteacher at Stretford Grammar School on Monday 20 April 2026 when he was hit and killed by a car driven by Simon Richardson.

Richardson failed to give way at a stop sign before colliding with Mr Mullins and driving off with Mr Mullins sadly trapped beneath the car. He also proceeded to change cars in a bid to evade capture. He was arrested on Tuesday 21 April 2026 following a short pursuit and charged with murder.

He continued to plead not guilty throughout the trial however a jury found him guilty on Friday 30 November 2026. Alongside his life sentence with a minimum term of 25 years, he was also sentenced to a lifetime driving ban.

Further words were heard before the sentencing from Michael’s family who courageously read out their impact statements in court:

Michael’s wife said: “I try to focus on ensuring that Michael is remembered with the dignity and affection he would have wanted. He was a devoted family man, he loved his friends, but he lived and breathed his vocation as a teacher and headteacher. It took me a long time to come to terms with the realisation that I had to share him with so many people but in the end, I came to accept that and realise that this was what made Michael, Michael. I wish I could have told him that more.”

Michael’s son said: “Dad wanted to make the world a better place. He told me that is all we need to aim for and if you can do that you can be proud of yourself.

“There are no words that can express the devastation caused and the emptiness that will remain in our lives without him.”

Michael’s daughter said: “He was the hardest working person I think I have ever or will ever know and for that I am so thankful as his dedication to instil the same attitude in me has led me to all my successes in life.”

“All of what should be the happiest moments in my life will have a cloud somewhere knowing that he should have been there. He should have been there each Christmas, up at the crack of dawn to put the turkey in. He should have been there to ask for advice for work. He should have been there to walk me down the aisle.”

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Louise Edwards said: “Since the verdict on Friday there has been an outpouring of kind thoughts from all those who knew Mr Mullins – the impact this investigation has had on the community has been felt throughout.

“Former pupils who are now officers have contacted our team to say how thankful they were that we have seen justice for Michael.

“Richardson is now set to face many years behind bars however he will have to live with the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life. The decisions he made tore a loving grandfather, husband, dad, friend and colleague away from this world.

“This investigation has always been for Michael – for everyone that has been left devastated by his death. Richardson has been sentenced and the trial is over however what happened to Michael and Richardson’s actions will stay with everyone who knew Michael and was impacted by his kind heart, warming nature and unwavering commitment to his loved ones, and his school.

“Finally, I’d like to say thank you to Michael’s family. They have sat in court every single day hearing what happened to this incredible man, and they have done it with courage. They have done it for their love for Michael – a man who will forever be in everyone’s hearts.”