A community in West Yorkshire is in mourning after a 12-year-old girl was killed in a collision involving a minivan close to her school. The tragic incident occurred on Monday afternoon, casting a shadow over the local area.
Details of the Tragic Collision
The fatal crash took place on Monday, 7th October, at approximately 3:20pm on Bradford Road in the Birkenshaw area. The vehicle involved was a Peugeot Expert minivan, which was in collision with the young pedestrian near the gates of BBG Academy.
Emergency services, including police, ambulance, and air ambulance crews, rushed to the scene. Despite their best efforts, the girl, who has been named locally as Jessica Leadbeater, was pronounced dead a short time later. Her family has been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.
Community and Police Response
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community. BBG Academy, where Jessica was a pupil, has confirmed the tragedy and is offering support to students and staff. A statement from the school expressed profound sadness and requested privacy for the family.
West Yorkshire Police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the crash. Officers from the Major Collision Enquiry Team are appealing for witnesses and any dashcam footage from drivers who were in the area at the time. The driver of the Peugeot minivan, a man in his 40s, was treated for shock at the scene.
A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail pending further enquiries, a police spokesperson confirmed.
Calls for Improved Road Safety
The tragedy has reignited concerns about road safety near schools, particularly during drop-off and pick-up times. Local residents and councillors have described the road as notoriously busy, with previous concerns raised about speeding vehicles.
Flowers and tributes have been left at the scene by heartbroken friends, classmates, and local residents. The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the exact sequence of events that led to this devastating loss of a young life.
