Woman, 77, killed in road sweeper crash named

Floral tributes have been left at the scene of the collision in Batley

A woman who died when she was hit by a council road sweeper has been named by police.

Khatija Umarji, 77, was struck by the vehicle in Commercial Street in Batley, West Yorkshire, on Tuesday morning.

A man who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving has been interviewed and released on bail, West Yorkshire Police said.

The force has asked anyone with information about the crash, which happened at about 09:55 BST, to contact them.

A spokesperson said: "The major collision enquiry team are continuing to appeal to any witnesses to come forward.

"They are also asking that anyone with footage of the collision or events leading up to it provides this to the police and is mindful of Khatija Umarji's family in not posting or sharing it on social media."

Kirklees Council said it was "deeply saddened" following the death of Mrs Umarji, who was from Batley.

A spokesperson said: "Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with the person's family and loved ones.

"The incident involved a council vehicle. We are fully cooperating with the police as they carry out their investigation."

The area was cordoned off by police while investigations were carried out

Emergency crews were called to Batley town centre on Tuesday after reports of the collision, but Mrs Umarji died at the scene.

Speaking at the scene, one eyewitness described seeing Mrs Umarji trapped underneath the vehicle as her daughter shouted for help.

He said he called 999 and police arrived shortly afterwards.

"It affects people a lot, this is a small community," he said.

Floral tributes have been left nearby, with notes including one which read: "RIP. You are in our thoughts and prayers, from staff and learners at the Smart Academy".

Police were called to the scene on Commercial Street at about 09:55 BST

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