A woman has died and three others, including a child, have been injured after a car struck multiple pedestrians in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.
Emergency services were called at around 2:30pm on Saturday, 4 May, following reports of two separate collisions in the area. One woman sustained life-threatening injuries after being hit on Whitworth Road. She was airlifted to hospital but sadly died shortly after arrival.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that the other three victims – struck on Woodgate Avenue – sustained minor injuries and were also taken to hospital. None of their injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
A 49-year-old male driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder, attempted murder, and assault. GMP later confirmed he was detained while receiving hospital treatment. The suspect, described as a white male, remains in custody.
Not Terror-Related, Say Police
GMP has confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terror-related and is believed to be an isolated event. The investigation is now being led by the force’s Major Incident Team.
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.”
Police Appeal for Unity and Reassurance
Addressing speculation on social media, ACC Webster added: “We are aware of comments 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 roads surrounding the collision scenes have since reopened and cordons lifted.
Appeal for Information
GMP has urged anyone with information or footage of the incident to contact police directly via 101 quoting log 1777 of 04/05/2025 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The force said they remain committed to supporting those affected and will provide updates as the investigation progresses.
For further updates on this story and others across Greater Manchester, follow official GMP communications and trusted local news sources.
