Dad dies on Jet2 flight from Bulgaria to Liverpool
- Chris Neill suffered a suspected heart attack on a Jet2 flight from Bulgaria to the UK, leading to an emergency landing in Germany.
- His family faced significant challenges in repatriating his body, which took almost two weeks.
- Chris's father expressed gratitude for community support and highlighted his son's vibrant personality and dedication to his family.
On September 16, 2023, Chris Neill, a 40-year-old father, tragically passed away while on a Jet2 flight from Burgas, Bulgaria, to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. During the flight, he experienced severe chest pains, prompting an emergency landing in Cologne, Germany. It is believed that he suffered a major heart attack. His two sons, Reece and Archie, along with Reece's girlfriend, were present during this distressing incident. Following his death, Chris's family faced the challenge of repatriating his body from Germany, which took nearly two weeks. Chris's father, Mal Neill, expressed gratitude for the support from Jet2 and the community as they sought financial assistance to bring Chris home. After a week of waiting, Mal confirmed that Chris's body had finally returned to the UK, although it still required clearance from a UK coroner due to the lack of a cause of death on the German certificate. This situation may lead to further delays in holding a funeral. Mal described Chris as a devoted father and a passionate Everton fan, emphasizing his vibrant personality and the love he had for his children. The family is now in a state of mourning, reflecting on the loss of a beloved family member who was known for his kindness and zest for life.