Officers arrest man on suspicion of murder after teenage boy, 15, dies in Middleton collision

Tuesday, 22 July 2025 16:21

By David Murphy

Credit: David Murphy / Roch Valley Radio

A 15-year-old boy has died following a collision between a car and an e-bike in Middleton, with a 59-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder as police launch a major investigation.

A murder investigation is underway after a teenage boy died in a collision in Middleton earlier today (Tuesday 22 July).

Emergency services were called to Rowrah Crescent at around 11.55am following reports of a collision involving a car and an e-bike. Despite the efforts of paramedics, the 15-year-old boy was pronounced dead at the scene. His family is being supported by specially trained officers.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that a 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody for questioning.

Another 15-year-old male has also been arrested on suspicion of theft as part of the wider investigation. Detectives are examining allegations of a theft in the lead-up to the collision.

A police cordon remains in place at Rowrah Crescent as officers carry out enquiries. Residents with concerns or information have been urged to speak with officers at the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Christopher Dean of GMP Rochdale said: “This terrible incident has seen the death of a teenage boy, and we are working hard to establish the full facts of this case. We are at the very early stages of our investigation.

“A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and will be questioned in due course, while our officers continue to support the family of the boy who has died today.

"I would urge people to avoid speculation on social media while we piece together what has taken place. At the centre of this is a grieving family.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything, or who has dashcam, CCTV or doorbell footage from the area, to please come forward.”

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