John Atkinson was the son of Daryl and Kevin Price and brother of Laura, Stacey and Amy.158 John was 28 years old at the time of his death on 23rd May 2017.159
John was very bright. He had a Mensa IQ score of 137 at eight years old.160 By the age of 25, he had passed all his NVQs and reached management level.161 He chose a career working with young adults with autism and behavioural difficulties, which he loved.162 His working life was spent helping those in care.163 His kind and generous nature was evident for all to see. His sister Laura remembers John as “the most thoughtful, loving, caring” man she had ever known.164 His mum told of his generosity and kindness.165
John was a fitness fanatic, who loved music, dancing and life in general.166 He was the centre of his family’s world,167 and was described as their “heart and soul”.168 I heard that his smile would light up the room169 and that he had an “addictive” personality.170 He loved everyone and everyone loved him.171 He adored his sisters and nephews, and hoped to one day provide foster care for children.172 His parents remember “his laugh, his humour, his personality, his love for his family, his thoughtful ways”.173
John was kind, generous and made people laugh. There is less laughter in the world without him.174
Events of 22nd May 2017
John received tickets to the Ariana Grande concert as a Christmas present and attended with his lifelong friend, Gemma O’Donnell.175 Gemma recalls that the concert was really good and they had a lovely time together.176
Having been to the Arena before, John knew that it would take them a little time to get out of the car park and so they left shortly before the concert ended.177 John and Gemma entered the City Room at 22:30:48.178