Teenagers killed in police pursuit

The teenagers died after crashing into a bank

Two teenagers have been killed after their car crashed while they were being pursued by police.

The 16-year-old youth and his 15-year-old passenger were killed when their black Ford Escort crashed into a bank in Greater Manchester.

The accident happened at the junction of Albert Road and Stockport Road in Levenshulme at around 0045GMT on Boxing Day morning.

Police followed the car after it sped along Stockport Road towards Manchester city centre.

The car allegedly pulled over and stopped before reversing away and driving through a red traffic light.

The Escort then crashed into a bank at the junction of Albert Road.

Previous tragedy

The crash will now be investigated by the Police Complaints Authority as all incidents involving the police which end in death.

It is the second time in three months that a high-speed crash involving officers from Greater Manchester Police has ended in tragedy.

Two women were killed in October when their car was in collision with a van while it was being pursued by a police car.

Chief Inspector Charlie Bradshaw of Greater Manchester Police has been appointed investigating officer for the latest incident.

A Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman said: "Prior to the accident, police officers had observed the vehicle on Stockport Road being driven at speed towards Manchester.

"They had attempted to stop the car using all emergency equipment but failed."

PCA member Tony Williams said: "Witnesses are urgently required to help us to inquire into this tragic accident."

Anyone with information should contact 0161 872 5050.