Man held over baby's death after mum hit by car

Det Ch Insp Andy Fallows described the incident on Station Road, Bamber Bridge, as "horrific"

A man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after a pregnant woman was critically injured in a crash and her baby later died.

The woman, aged in her 30s, was walking on a pedestrian crossing in Bamber Bridge, shortly before 20:00 BST on Sunday when she was struck by a Toyota Prius car, Lancashire Police said.

She was taken to hospital and had emergency surgery to deliver her son but he later died. She remains in a critical condition.

A 19-year-old man, from Walton le Dale, is being questioned in police custody.

The incident happened on Station Road close to the junction with Longbrook Avenue and Fourfields in Bamber Bridge.

Police said detectives had seized a Toyota Prius car in Bolton.

A 17-year-old girl, from Lostock Hall, and a 40-year-old man, from Blackburn, who were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and attempting to pervert the course of justice have now been released pending further enquiries.

A 19-year-old man from Bolton remains in custody on suspicion of the same offences.

Two boys, aged 16 and 17, and a 53-year-old man, all from Bamber Bridge, previously arrested in connection with the incident were bailed.

Det Ch Insp Andy Fallows said: "My thoughts first and foremost remain with those affected by this horrific incident which has resulted in the death of a little baby and has left his mother very poorly in hospital.

"We have made good progress in our investigation and I am grateful to all those who have come forward with information so far."

He appealed for anyone else who could help the inquiry to come forward.