A tragic incident on the A59 road in Gisburn, northern England, has resulted in the death of a five-year-old girl, who succumbed to her injuries in hospital days after the accident. The collision, which occurred on Thursday, May 21, at approximately 3:55 p.m., left several individuals with serious injuries, sparking an extensive emergency response.
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According to Lancashire Police, the crash involved two vehicles. The fifth-year victim was a passenger in one of the cars, alongside a five-year-old boy. The drivers involved were a woman in her sixties and a man in his twenties. Following the collision, emergency services, including ambulances and air ambulances, attended the scene alongside fire crew personnel.
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 27, police confirmed the heartbreaking news that the young girl had passed away the previous afternoon. The authorities expressed their condolences to the family during what they described as a distressing time, and noted that family liaison officers are providing support to them.
The two drivers and the other child are currently still receiving medical treatment in hospital facilities. The police disclosed that the second driver is being treated as a witness as part of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Sergeant Laura Kendall, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, voiced her sorrow regarding the girl’s death, labelling it as “heartbreaking.” She shared her thoughts with the injured individuals in hospital while reiterating the importance of the ongoing investigation, which is still in its initial stages.
Authorities have emphasised the need to gather more information regarding the incident and are calling upon any witnesses or individuals who may have dashcam footage to come forward. Those with information are encouraged to contact the police unit directly via email at SCIU@lancashire.police.uk or by dialling 101 and quoting log number 0986 from May 21.
Kendall has urged the public to refrain from speculating on the details of the incident, underscoring that such conjecture could be distressing for the girl’s family. She stated, “The investigation will determine this, and we ask that people respect the family during this very difficult time, avoiding comments that may be harmful.”
The tragedy has drawn public attention, with the community left in shock over the young girl’s untimely death. Local residents expressed their sorrow following the news and have been rallying support for the grieving family, underscoring the necessity of unity in difficult times.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on uncovering the exact circumstances of the crash to provide clarity to the family and the community. Local police have reiterated their determination to carry out a thorough inquiry, ensuring that the incident is fully examined and that those affected receive the necessary support as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic event.
In the coming days, further updates regarding the ongoing investigation are anticipated as the police work diligently to gather all pertinent information concerning the accident. The community remains hopeful for the recovery of the injured individuals while mourning the loss of a young life.