A woman injured in yesterday’s incident in Rochdale when a car ploughed into pedestrians and was airlifted to hospital has died
The male driver, a 49-year-old male, has additionally been arrested on suspicion of murder and remanded into custody.
The driver ran into pedestrians in locations in Rochdale – Woodgate Avenue and Whitworth Road.
On Woodgate Avenue, three people were injured, including a child. All suffered minor injuries, none of which are life-threatening or life-changing, and they have since been discharged from hospital.
This incident is not being treated as terrorism related. This incident and arrest is unrelated and separate to the pre-planned Counter Terrorism Policing operation which saw one 40-year-old Iranian man arrested in Rochdale on Saturday evening.
This man was arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act. This investigation relates to a suspected plot to target a specific premises and is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing, with GMP officers assisting in the arrest of individuals and searches of premises in Greater Manchester.
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.”
