Greater Manchester Police have launched an urgent manhunt for a van driver who fled the scene of a devastating collision that claimed the life of a three-year-old girl in Manchester city centre.
The tragic incident occurred at 9:56 am on Saturday, when a van collided with a tram on Mosley Street, forcing the tram onto the pavement and into a pedestrian area. The young victim was struck and rushed to hospital, but despite the best efforts of emergency responders, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Van Driver Fled the Scene
According to Greater Manchester Police (GMP), the driver of the van fled the scene immediately after the collision, prompting a citywide search. Investigators are currently pursuing “several lines of inquiry” to locate the individual responsible.
Assistant Chief Constable Stephanie Parker expressed her condolences and urged the public to assist in the ongoing investigation:
“Firstly, I would like to send my deepest condolences to the family of the victim. This is a tragic incident where a young girl has sadly lost her life despite the responding officers’ best attempts to save her.”
“Our investigation is ongoing, and we are following multiple leads to locate the driver who fled the scene. This is being treated as an isolated incident, with no wider threat to the community.”
Appeal for Witnesses and Dashcam Footage
GMP is appealing to any witnesses who may have seen the collision or the van driver fleeing the scene. Police are particularly keen to hear from drivers with dashcam footage from the area around Mosley Street, Booth Street, and Nicholas Street during the time of the incident.
“We are appealing to any witnesses and anyone who may have seen the van driver leave his vehicle to get in touch with us,” said ACC Parker.
“Please contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting the log number 1086 of 22/02/25.”
Information can also be shared via the LiveChat function on the GMP website or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Public Shock and Community Response
The incident has sent shockwaves through Manchester, with many residents expressing their grief and outrage on social media. One witness described the scene as “heartbreaking and chaotic”, noting the swift response of emergency services.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) confirmed the collision and extended their sympathies to the family of the young girl. They also noted that tram services on Mosley Street were temporarily suspended as investigators examined the scene.
In a statement, TfGM said:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred on Mosley Street this morning. Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected. We are cooperating fully with Greater Manchester Police in their investigation.”
A Tragic Reminder of Road Safety Challenges
This incident adds to a growing list of road traffic tragedies in Manchester, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic safety in city centres. Local councillor Rebecca Johnson has called for an urgent review of pedestrian safety around tram routes:
“This devastating incident is a stark reminder that we need to ensure the safety of pedestrians, especially vulnerable road users like children, in high-traffic areas. Our hearts go out to the family during this unimaginable time.”
The city has been grappling with increasing concerns over road safety in busy urban areas, and this incident has reignited discussions on improving traffic management and pedestrian protection.
Greater Manchester Police urge the public to come forward with any information that may assist in finding the driver responsible for this tragedy.
If you have information, please contact Greater Manchester Police at 0161 856 4741 or submit tips via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
