Baby boy dies and mum fighting for life after 'hit-and-run' as six arrested

The pregnant woman was allegedly struck while using a pedestrian crossing and while medics were able to deliver her child, he sadly later died.

A baby boy born after an alleged hit-and-run has tragically passed away, while his mother is fighting for life. The woman, in her 30s, was pregnant when she was allegedly struck by a car in Bamber Bridge, Lancashire, on Sunday evening.

She had been using a pedestrian crossing when she was allegedly mowed down by a dark grey Toyota Prius. The driver is alleged to have fled the scene.

Mercy crews raced to the scene to treat the expectant mother. Her baby boy was successfully delivered but sadly later died in hospital. The mum remains in a critical condition.

Lancashire Police launched a probe into the tragic incident. They have arrested six people in connection but their investigation remains ongoing as they continue efforts to trace the Toyota.

Among those arrested are four teenagers, detained in the days following the incident. Cops reported the arrests of a 17-year-old girl from Lostock Hall, a 19-year-old man from Bolton, Greater Manchester, and a 40-year-old man from Blackburn, all on suspicion of assisting an offender and attempting to pervert the course of justice. They are currently in custody.

Two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, along with a 53-year-old man, all from Bamber Bridge, were arrested earlier but have been released on bail as the investigation continues, according to LancashireLive.

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A police spokesperson said: "We are still appealing for anyone who saw the vehicle before or after the collision, or anyone who has information about the occupants or the current location of the vehicle, registration FY62 MXC. We would also like to hear from anyone with CCTV, dashcam, Ring doorbell, or mobile phone footage."

The Toyota Prius was last seen heading along Station Road towards Preston, about five miles from the crash site. Police have described the investigation into the "absolutely appalling incident" as progressing steadily.

Detective Chief Inspector Jill Riley, from the force's Major Investigation Team, said: “This is an absolutely appalling incident that has resulted in the death of a baby and left the mother gravely ill in the hospital. My thoughts are with their family and loved ones.

“Our investigation is making good progress, but we still urge anyone with footage or information that could help us understand the events leading up to and following this tragic collision to come forward.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to call 101, quoting log 1163 of September 29, or email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at SCIU@lancashire.police.uk. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or through their website at crimestoppers.org.

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