Six-Year-Old Harrison Jones Died After Van Collision on Wigan Residential Street
A six-year-old boy, Harrison Jones, tragically died after colliding with a van while riding his bicycle on a residential street in Wigan. An inquest into the incident heard that Harrison sustained fatal head injuries after falling into the road directly in front of the vehicle.
The collision occurred on 28 July 2023 on Wigan Road in New Springs. Harrison was reportedly playing on his bike, described as a small, blue and black model, when the incident unfolded. The van driver, Stephen Cain, informed the court he was travelling at approximately 15-20 mph, well within the 30 mph speed limit for the area.
Mr Cain recounted seeing Harrison on the pavement and slowing his vehicle as he approached. He stated that the boy then veered into the road. Despite Mr Cain's immediate braking and swerving manoeuvre, he was unable to avoid striking Harrison.
Police Constable David Glass, a forensic collision investigator, testified that Harrison's bicycle had no defects that could have contributed to the crash. He concluded that Mr Cain had insufficient time to react once Harrison entered his path.
Coroner Catherine Cundy ruled the death an accident. She extended her condolences to Harrison's family, acknowledging the profoundly tragic circumstances of his passing.
