Chorlton: Investigation Reopened Into Boy's Death

Police have reopened their investigation into a hit-and-run which caused the death of a five-year-old boy in Chorlton ten years ago.

Sam Walker was crossing Hardy Lane with his mum, sister and cousin when he was struck by a silver Mitsubishi Gallant.

The driver of the car has never been traced and has been described as a black man aged between 18 and 21.

A £20,000 reward is being offered to anyone with information leading to the identification and conviction of the driver.

Sergeant Lee Westhead from Greater Manchester Police is asking anyone with information to come forward.

He said: "The community of Chorlton-cum-Hardy has not forgotten the little boy who was left to die on Hardy Lane 10 years ago.

"He was extremely well known and is remembered fondly by everyone.

"Someone within the community knows the identity of the driver and so we are urging them to come forward and speak to us.

"You can put an end to the decade of suffering Sam’s family have endured and help them obtain the answers to their questions.

"I’m also appealing directly to the driver to come and speak to us. I am certain you did not intend for any of the tragic consequences of that day to take place.

"This is an opportunity for you to put an end to the torment and to help Sam’s family move on.

"Come in and speak to us on your terms before we come knocking on your door."

Sam’s mother, Jackie, continues to appeal for anyone who knows who was driving to come forward.

She said: "10 years ago my son Samuel, aged 5, was killed by a hit and run driver. Samuel would have been celebrating his 16th birthday in March.

"Samuel was a beautiful boy who had dancing eyes and a magical smile. He was a bright happy boy who was loved by all who knew him.    
                               
"The last 10 years have been a living nightmare for my family and I. My life has never been the same since I lost my precious boy, I miss him so much.

"My family and I want the person who is responsible for this to please come forward or if anyone knows who this person is to please come forward.

"I want this resolved so my family and I can put the agony behind us and maybe then we can grieve together for our Samuel. Samuel will never be forgotten and this will never go away until this has been resolved.

"I believe somebody out there knows who this person is so please come forward."

Police have reconstructed the collision - you can watch it below:

Anyone with information should contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 or anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.