BAMBER BRIDGE, LANCASHIRE – A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Bamber Bridge on the evening of Sunday, September 29, as a newborn baby died following a hit-and-run collision that left his mother critically injured. The tragic event has raised urgent concerns about road safety and prompted a police investigation.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred shortly before 8 PM when a woman in her 30s was crossing a pedestrian crossing on Station Road. She was struck by a car heading towards Preston. The impact was severe, and emergency services were dispatched immediately to the scene.
The woman was transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Medical professionals performed emergency surgery to deliver her baby boy, but, tragically, the infant did not survive. As of now, the mother remains in the hospital in critical condition, with authorities confirming that her situation is dire.
Ongoing Investigation
Lancashire Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, focusing on identifying the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. The car, described as a dark grey Toyota Prius, did not stop at the scene and has yet to be located.
In connection with the investigation, three individuals have been arrested: a 17-year-old girl from Lostock Hall, a 19-year-old man from Bolton, and a 40-year-old man from Blackburn. They have been detained on suspicion of assisting an offender and attempting to pervert the course of justice. These suspects remain in police custody as inquiries continue.
Earlier in the investigation, two boys aged 16 and 17, along with a 56-year-old man, all from Bamber Bridge, were also arrested. They have since been released on bail, but the police are still actively pursuing leads related to the incident.
Police Appeal for Information
Detective Chief Inspector Jill Riley, of the Force Major Investigation Team, expressed her dismay at the tragedy, stating, “This is an absolutely appalling incident which has resulted in the death of a little baby and has left his mother very poorly in hospital. My thoughts are with their loved ones.”
Riley urged the public to assist in the investigation by providing any information or footage that could help reconstruct the events leading up to the collision and its aftermath.
“We are making good progress in our investigation, but I would still like to hear from anyone who may have footage or information which could help us piece together the events which led to this tragic collision and what happened afterwards,” she added.
Witnesses Sought
Police are specifically requesting information from anyone who may have seen the car before or after the collision. They are also keen to learn about the vehicle’s whereabouts, which bears the registration number FY62 MXC.
Residents and motorists who may have captured any relevant footage on CCTV, dashcam, or mobile devices are encouraged to come forward. Anyone with such information can contact the police by calling 101 and quoting log 1163 of September 29.
For those who prefer to communicate via email, they can reach the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at [email protected]. Additionally, the independent charity Crimestoppers offers an anonymous reporting option at 0800 555 111 or through their website, crimestoppers.org.
Community Response
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing their grief and outrage. Social media has been abuzz with condolences for the mother and calls for increased safety measures at pedestrian crossings. Community leaders are also advocating for greater awareness of road safety, particularly in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
Local residents have described the area as typically safe, highlighting the rarity of such incidents. However, this tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that exist on the roads. Community members are rallying together to support the mother’s family during this devastating time, offering assistance and solidarity.
Conclusion
The heartbreaking loss of a newborn baby due to a hit-and-run incident has left a family shattered and a community in mourning. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are diligently working to uncover the facts surrounding this tragic event. With the public’s help, they hope to bring justice to the affected family and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
The tragedy highlights the critical need for drivers to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in areas frequented by pedestrians. In the coming days, the police hope to gather more information to bring clarity to this unfortunate situation and provide some measure of closure for the grieving family.
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