One killed and driver held by police after collision

May 2 2008 by Alan Weston, Liverpool Daily Post

ONE man died and four others were injured in a road traffic collision on one of the main roads leading into and out of Liverpool last night.

It happened at around 8pm in Derby Road, Bootle, when a Lexus driver travelling towards the city centre lost control of his vehicle and travelled into the path of an oncoming van.

A passenger in the Lexus died at the scene, while the van driver was taken to hospital, where his condition is described as serious.

A 17-year-old youth has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

At the time of the collision, the Lexus and a Skoda were being followed by officers in an unmarked car. The matter has now been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

The Lexus driver suffered head injuries, with the two surviving passengers also injured. They were all taken to hospital, with injuries not thought to be life-threatening.

Collision investigators attended the scene, and the section of road where the accident occurred, near to the junction with Millers Bridge, was expected to remain closed until the early hours of this morning.

The coroner has been informed.

Merseyside Police is appealing for any witnesses to contact 0151 777 5730.

alanweston