Girl, 3, killed in crash between tram and van as police launch manhunt for driver who 'fled the scene'

A three-year-old girl has died following a crash involving a tram and a van in Manchester city centre.

Greater Manchester Police rushed to the scene on Mosley Street, near to St Peter’s Square, following the collision shortly before 10am on Saturday morning.

The collision prompted a huge emergency services response with two air ambulances, along with two ambulances and a rapid response vehicle, being dispatched to the scene.

The young girl was rushed to hospital following the crash but later died from her injuries. According to police, the girl was a pedestrian on the street and was hit by the white Mercedes-Benz van after it rebounded from a collision with the Metrolink tram.

The Manchester Evening News reported that the van driver fled the scene after the crash occurred and police said they were following several lines of inquiry to locate him.

A cordon is in place on Mosley Street and all trams have been suspended through St Peter's Square.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "Emergency services are responding to reports of a collision involving a tram and a van in Manchester city centre.

"A three-year-old girl was taken to hospital and has sadly passed away from her injuries. No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing."

Police said the crash was being treated as an isolated incident with no wider threat to the community.

"I would like to send my condolences to the family of the victim. This is a tragic incident where a young girl has sadly lost her life despite the responding officer's best attempts to save her," Assistant Chief Constable Stephanie Parker said.

"Our investigation is ongoing and we are investigating a number of lines of inquiry."

Manchester City Council said it would make sure the family had its "full support".

"All of Manchester is horrified at this shocking crash," a council spokesperson said.

"All our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of this innocent little girl."

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