Key Points
- · A fatal crash occurred on Chew Moor Lane, Bolton, involving a blue Jaguar XE losing control while overtaking, resulting in the death of a pedestrian in his 40s. The driver, a man in his 20s, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
- · Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Serious Collision Investigation Unit is investigating and appealing for witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward.
- · In Westhoughton and Horwich, residents have voiced ongoing concerns about speeding and dangerous driving on local roads.
- · Historic cases of dangerous driving in Bolton, including Westhoughton, have led to serious legal consequences; a man was jailed for 11 years for racing at over 60 mph and causing a pedestrian’s death.
- · Additional road safety concerns involve traffic congestion, narrow roads, and insufficient parking infrastructure, exacerbating risks to pedestrians.
- · Another fatal crash in Bolton involved a driver under the influence of nitrous oxide, which killed a passenger and seriously injured another, highlighting the ongoing dangers of impaired and reckless driving.
What happened in the recent fatal crash on Chew Moor Lane?
A tragic incident took place around 6:45 pm on Monday, October 28, 2024, when a blue Jaguar XE lost control while overtaking another vehicle on Chew Moor Lane, Bolton. The car mounted the pavement and struck a pedestrian, a man in his 40s, who died at the scene. The driver, a man in his 20s, was promptly arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and taken into custody for questioning. The Greater Manchester Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit is conducting a thorough investigation and has appealed to the public for any eyewitnesses or individuals with dashcam or mobile footage of the incident to come forward.
How are Westhoughton and Horwich residents responding to concerns about dangerous driving?
Residents in Westhoughton and Horwich have long expressed concern about speeding and reckless driving on their local roads. A community meeting at Horwich police station saw local officers discuss these issues with residents, addressing fears about road safety and speeding. These concerns highlight a persistent worry about dangerous driving behaviours impacting pedestrian safety and community well-being in these towns.
Have there been previous serious incidents linked to dangerous driving in the area?
Yes, Bolton and its surrounding areas, including Westhoughton, have experienced fatal incidents linked to dangerous driving recently. One case involved Adam Ross, aged 30 from Bolton, jailed for 11 years after causing death by dangerous driving. Ross was racing another driver at speeds exceeding 60 mph in Westhoughton, treating streets like a racetrack. He fled the scene but was later captured and sentenced. Another driver involved in this incident received a prison sentence for his role.
What are local officials and police doing to tackle dangerous driving and improve road safety?
The GMP Serious Collision Investigation Unit investigates serious crashes linked to dangerous driving. Following the recent fatality on Chew Moor Lane, police have requested witnesses and footage to aid their investigations, reflecting a proactive approach to enforcing road safety laws. Local police engage with Horwich and Westhoughton communities to raise awareness and address speeding concerns. However, residents also point to infrastructure challenges such as narrow roads, traffic congestion, and limited parking, which indirectly increase risk by creating difficult driving conditions.
What other fatal road incidents have occurred in Bolton recently, and what do they reveal about road safety challenges?
In February 2025, a driver under the influence of nitrous oxide was sentenced to ten years after causing a crash on St Helen's Road, Bolton. The crash killed a 63-year-old woman and seriously injured her husband. This case highlights the ongoing risks posed by impaired driving. Authorities stressed the tragic but preventable nature of such incidents and underscored the importance of complying with road safety regulations.
What are the wider community concerns regarding traffic and road conditions in Westhoughton?
Community feedback from the Bolton Council’s Westhoughton Masterplan consultation highlights worries about growing traffic congestion and road safety. Market Street and nearby roads often face gridlock. Narrow footpaths and limited parking compound dangers for pedestrians and drivers. Many residents object to developments that might increase traffic without improving infrastructure or parking.
How can the public assist police investigations into dangerous driving incidents?
The public is urged to come forward if they witnessed incidents like the Chew Moor Lane crash or have dashcam or mobile footage that could help. Such evidence aids police in building a clear picture of events and brings those responsible to justice, possibly preventing future tragedies.
What are the legal consequences of dangerous driving causing death in Greater Manchester?
Sentences for dangerous driving causing death in Greater Manchester can be long prison terms. Recent cases show offenders receiving 10 to 11 years imprisonment alongside driving bans and other penalties. These legal outcomes reflect the serious judicial stance against reckless driving and its grave consequences.