A man has died following a devastating hit-and-run collision on Newcastle Lane in Penkhull, Stoke-on-Trent, prompting an urgent police appeal to identify the driver responsible.
The fatal incident occurred at 9pm on Friday, 11 April, when a black car struck the pedestrian and fled the scene before emergency services arrived.
What Happened?
Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service responded swiftly to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian. On arrival, officers found an adult male with serious injuries. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, the victim was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the car — believed to be a black vehicle — failed to stop and has not yet been identified. Authorities immediately cordoned off the area for investigation and are now analysing CCTV footage to determine the make, model, and direction of the vehicle.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Staffordshire Police are appealing for any witnesses or individuals with information to come forward.
We are urging anyone who saw a black car in the area at the time, or who may have dashcam or CCTV footage, to contact us,” a spokesperson said.
The incident is being investigated under reference number 751 of 11 April. Information can be submitted by calling 101, using Live Chat on the Staffordshire Police website, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Investigation Challenges
With no immediate description of the driver or detailed information about the vehicle, investigators face a challenging road ahead. Police are examining footage from Newcastle Lane and surrounding areas, including Hanley and Stoke town centre, to reconstruct the vehicle’s movements.
Staffordshire’s Roads Policing Unit, which focuses on reducing traffic collisions across the county, is also involved in the investigation.
Nationally, hit-and-run incidents remain a significant concern. According to the RAC Foundation, over 28,000 hit-and-run cases were recorded in the UK in 2023. While many involve damage to property, fatal incidents like this one raise questions about road safety and enforcement.
Community Impact and Support
In the wake of the tragedy, Victim Support is offering free, confidential services to anyone affected. The charity’s Staffordshire branch continues to provide emotional and practical support to victims and their families during difficult times.
The community in Penkhull has been left shaken, and local leaders are urging residents to assist the investigation in any way possible.
Help Catch the Driver
Police are urging residents to check private CCTV or dashcam footage recorded on Friday night. Even seemingly insignificant details — such as spotting a black car driving erratically — could help identify the suspect.
“This family deserves answers and justice,” said a Staffordshire Police spokesperson. “We need the public’s help.”
