Man dies as car crashes into pub in Rochdale after police chase

The car ploughed into The White Lion Pub in Heywood Credit: MEN Media

A person has died after a car crashed into a pub and then caught fire - following a police chase.

The incident happened at The White Lion in Heywood, Rochdale, at around 3:15am on Monday 1 July.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said in the lead up, a Dacia Sandero was travelling on Bolton Road in Heywood when it failed to stop for a marked police patrol car.

A short pursuit began onto Rochdale Road East, but GMP said a few moments later a decision was made to stop.

Shortly after that, the Dacia crashed into the pub on York Street and the driver died at the scene.

The area around the White Lion Pub in Heywood were cordoned off Credit: MEN media

The matter has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, in line with normal procedure.

A cordon remains in place with pictures from the scene showing a gaping hole in the side of the pub, with a car stranded inside.

A number of floral tributes have been left, while a forensic team work within the cordon.

A Cadent gas van is also present.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: "Shortly after 3.15am this morning (Monday, 1 July), four fire engines from Rochdale, Heywood and Bury fire stations attended a building fire on York Street, Heywood.

"Crews arrived quickly and used four hose reel jets and four breathing apparatus to extinguish the fire. Road closures are in place and firefighters remain in attendance at this time."

York Street has been closed between Hartley Street and Green Lane, with motorists urged to avoid the area.