Fatal road traffic collision on Ripponden Road - BMW driver released on bail

A BMW driver who was arrested after a parent and her son were tragically killed in an Oldham crash over the weekend has been released on bail.

According to an update from Greater Manchester Police, the 35-year-old male driver from Oldham, who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, has since been bailed.

The family of the parent and son who died in the road traffic collision on Ripponden Road in Oldham on Saturday (December 23) earlier paid their own tribute.

Clair (42) and Sam (15) sadly passed away as a result of their injuries at the scene of the incident.

Their family said: “Clair was a smart, loving parent, daughter and sister who would do anything for anyone.

“Prior to the pandemic, Clair worked at the Bolton Theatre, supporting those facing mental health challenges.

“She loved going to pottery class every week and was such a creative person and she could go from a lump of clay to making whatever she put her mind to.

“Sam was in Year 11, looking forward to studying music at college; he loved to sing and to play the drums.

"Listening to music was one of Sam’s favourite things to do, he was always around the house with his headphones on.

“When Sam wasn’t listening to music, he could be found in a world of his own playing on his computer.

"Sam’s family meant the world to him; he was a brother and son whose loss will leave a hole in our family forever.

“Christmas without Sam and Clair will be immensely difficult not only for us, but for everybody that knew them both.”

The family has asked for privacy as they grieve during this difficult time.

PC Thomas Johnson, of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts continue to remain with their family who are being supported by officers at this really difficult time."

If you can help or have any information that may assist with Greater Manchester Police's enquiries, then please contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741, quoting incident 2304 of 23/12/2023.

Information can also be reported online at: www.gmp.police.uk

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