Rochdale Woman Dies in Suspected Murder Crash; Driver Arrested, Police Seek Witnesses
May 3, 2025
A woman has died following two separate collisions involving a car in Rochdale on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
The driver, a 49-year-old male, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody.
Assistant Chief Constable John Webster expressed condolences to the victim's family and emphasized that the incidents are not connected to recent terrorism arrests.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, while three pedestrians, including a child, suffered minor injuries in an incident on Woodgate Avenue.
Initially, the driver faced charges of assault and attempted murder before the murder charge was applied.
The Major Collision Enquiry Team suspects another vehicle, a black Ford Fiesta, was involved in the crash.
The investigation is being treated as an isolated incident, with a Major Incident Team working on multiple lines of enquiry to ensure community safety.
Police have cordoned off the roads while investigations are ongoing, and additional police resources will remain in the area.
Authorities are actively investigating the events and are seeking witnesses, urging anyone with dash cam footage or information to come forward.
Despite the serious nature of the incidents, authorities believe they are isolated and will maintain an increased police presence in the area.
Local residents expressed their shock and concern for the victims, with one neighbor describing the incident as 'horrendous.'
Public cooperation was appreciated during the investigation, which caused significant disruption in the area, though roads have since been reopened.
Summary based on 19 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • May 3, 2025
Driver arrested after four people injured in two collisions in Rochdale
The Guardian • May 4, 2025
Woman dies and three more pedestrians injured after being hit by car in Rochdale
BBC News • May 4, 2025
Rochdale crashes: Woman dies after being hit by car
BBC News • May 3, 2025
Rochdale crashes: Four pedestrians hit and injured by car