Woman dies day after car ploughed into group of pedestrians
A woman has died after she was seriously injured when a car rammed into a group of pedestrians in Greater Manchester.
Four people, including a child, were hurt after a car ploughed into a group of pedestrians on Woodgate Avenue and Whitworth Road in Rochdale yesterday afternoon.
The woman was airlifted to the hospital, where she fought for her life before succumbing to her injuries today.
Three people who were injured received non-life-threatening injuries in the incident and they have since been discharged from hospital.
The driver, a 49-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and assault, and has been remanded in custody.
The incident is not being treated as terror-related, police have confirmed following an unrelated counter terrorism policing operation in Rochdale yesterday evening.
Rumours have been circulating online following the incident, leading to the police to issue a lengthy statement.
Assistant Chief Constable John Webster said: ‘Firstly, our thoughts are with the family of the victim who has sadly lost their life in this tragic case.
‘The actions of a single person have caused significant damage to the people of Rochdale.
‘I want to take this opportunity to categorically confirm that this terrible incident is in no way related to the pre-planned Counter Terrorism arrests and searches that took place yesterday, part of which resulted in the arrest of a man in Rochdale on Saturday evening.
‘We are aware of comments on social media about the driver’s identity and ethnicity.
‘The suspect is a white male currently in custody and no further details can be released at this time.
‘I also want to reassure the public that ongoing efforts are being taken to ensure the safety of people in Rochdale and our Major Incident Team are conducting several lines of enquiry. The lone offender has been arrested on suspicion of murder and it is being treated as an isolated incident, with both scenes now closed and roads reopened.
‘This incident caused significant disruption yesterday and I thank the public for their cooperation and understanding while our officers conducted their enquiries.
‘We are committed to this investigation and have significant resources dedicated to it.
‘To all those people affected by yesterday’s tragic events, community solidarity and unity is vital in times like these and especially for the families and friends of those impacted by this incident.’
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