'Very talented' teenage footballer killed in hit-and-run

15-year-old Dylan Crossey dies after suspected drink-driving collision

Police have arrested a 42-year-old man on suspicion of causing Dylan's death (Facebook)

A “very talented” teenage footballer has been killed following a suspected drink-driving hit-and-run in Lancashire.

15-year-old Dylan Crossey was cycling near his home in Whitestake, Lancashire at 11pm on Friday when he was hit by a silver 3 Series BMW that failed to stop.

He was rushed to the Royal Preston Hospital with serious head injuries before being transferred to Manchester Children’s Hospital, where he died on Saturday.

Police said a 42-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink driving.

Football club Longridge Town Juniors, who Dylan had played against, said he was a “very talented” footballer with “silky, mesmerising skills".

He was “very often tying knots in our defence", they added in an online statement.

Dylan’s own team, Penwortham St Teresa’s FC, 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.”

Some of the club’s fixtures had been cancelled, it added, while others will include a pre-match minute’s applause in Dylan's memory.

Police have seized the car they believe was involved in the collision and detained the suspect, who lives in the nearby village of New Longton, in custody. They are appealing for anyone who saw the vehicle in the area to come forward.

Lancashire Police 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 is asked to call Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log number 1316 of 7 October.