'Talented' teenage footballer dies in suspected Lancashire hit-and-run
Tributes have been paid to 15-year-old Dylan Crossey, who was hailed for his 'mesmerising skills'.
A 15-year-old footballer has died after being knocked off his bike in a suspected drink-driving hit-and-run. Dylan Crossey had been cycling along a road in Whitestake, Lancashire, when he was struck by a silver 3 Series BMW at around 11pm on Friday (7 October).
The driver of the vehicle apparently failed to stop following the collision, and the teenager was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital with serious head injuries before being transferred to Manchester Children's Hospital, where he later died.
Tributes have been paid to the teenager, who has been described as a talented footballer with 'mesmerising skills' and a promising future in the sport.
Dylan had played for his local team, Penwortham St Teresa's FC, almost 100 times.
In an online statement, his former club said: "The club was saddened to learn of the passing of U16s player Dylan Crossey this morning. Dylan made close to 100 appearances in a yellow shirt, playing a sport he loved so dearly and always represented the club with pride.
"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Penwortham St Teresa's JFC are with Dylan's family and friends at this sad time. Tomorrow's U16 and U18 fixtures have been cancelled, whilst all remaining fixtures will hold a pre-match minute's applause."
JFC's rival side, Longridge Town Juniors, also said in a post: "Everyone at Longridge town juniors would like to pass on their condolences to the teams and family of Dylan Crossey. Dylan died last night in a tragic hit and run. He was 15.
"Dylan played for Penwortham St Teresa's and more recently Cadley. A very talented striker with silky, mesmerising skills, very often tying knots in our defence. When we get news like this it hits us all in junior football. Hurts us all in our football community. Rest in peace Dylan."
Meanwhile. a 42-year-old man from New Longton was arrested on Saturday (8 October) on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink-driving, after police recovered a silver BMW 3 Series from an address in the village, according to Sky News.
Police are appealing for anyone who saw the vehicle in the area to come forward.
Chief Inspector Mike Adamson said: "Dylan has very sadly died as a result of the injuries he sustained in this collision and we are continuing our investigation into this tragic incident.
"We would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who may have seen a silver BMW 3 Series in the area around the time of the collision to contact us. Similarly, if you have any other information that could assist with our ongoing investigation, I would urge you to get in touch with us as soon as possible."
Anyone with information can call Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log number 1316 of 7 October.
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