A 19-year-old man has been arrested after two women were killed in a horrific road collision in Bolton just days before Christmas.
Scene of the Tragedy
Greater Manchester Police were called to the complex junction of Scout Road, Smithills Dean Road, Colliers Row Road and Coal Pit Road at approximately 7.42am on Monday, 22 December 2025. The emergency services responded to reports that a Volkswagen Polo, travelling down Scout Road, had collided with two pedestrians on Smithills Dean Road.
The pedestrians, two women aged 57 and 59, sustained catastrophic injuries. Despite the rapid arrival of paramedics, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
The driver of the VW Polo, a 19-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing two deaths by dangerous driving. He remains in police custody for questioning.
The force's Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) has launched a full probe into the circumstances that led to the fatal incident. Officers are conducting a detailed forensic examination of the area and the vehicle involved.
Appeal for Witnesses and Information
Investigators are now urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist the inquiry. Detective Sergeant Jane Smith of the SCIU stated: "This is a devastating incident that has claimed two lives, and our thoughts are with the families of those who have died."
Police are particularly keen to hear from:
- Anyone who witnessed the collision itself.
- Motorists who were in the area around 7.40am to 7.50am on Monday morning.
- Individuals or businesses with dashcam, doorbell, or CCTV footage that may have captured the VW Polo prior to the crash or the incident itself.
Information can be provided directly to the SCIU by calling 0161 856 4741 or via the Live Chat service on the GMP website, quoting log number 507 of 22/12/2025. Anonymous reports can be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The tragic deaths have cast a shadow over the local community in Bolton during the festive period. The junction where the crash occurred remains subject to a police cordon as forensic work continues.
