Wakefield Hit And Run: Man Bailed

A 21-year-old man who was arrested after a six-year-old boy was knocked down and killed by a motorist has been released on bail.

West Yorkshire Police arrested the Huddersfield man yesterday on suspicion of causing the death by dangerous driving of Owen Wightman from Wakefield.

Owen was hit by a car while out playing with his seven-year-old friend close to his home on Saturday.

The youngster was hit as he crossed the busy Fishpond Road.

Tonight, a West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Detectives are continuing to investigate Owen's death''.

Earlier this week, police described how they were looking for a light blue or grey hatchback driven by a lone white man, probably in his 20s, which failed to stop at the scene.

But the car did stop about 100 yards further along the road after taking a left turn into Haveroid Lane, officers said.

The driver was seen inspecting the front of the car for damage.

A team of detectives have been scrutinising CCTV footage from a passing bus which captured the car involved.

Owen's parents, Joanne, 33, and Neil, 31, said they had lost their "baby'' and appealed for someone to come forward so they could "lay him to rest''.

A statement said: "He was a perfect little man who was taken from us - just perfect in every way.

"He walked into a room and lit it up.

"He was our bundle of joy and our little ray of sunshine.''

The family said Owen leaves two brothers - Jack, 12, and one-year-old Thomas.

Masses of floral tributes and teddy bears have been left at the scene.

Residents continued to place notes and flowers by the side of the road today.

Along with flowers and a green, cuddly monkey, Owen's elder brother Jack left a note which read: "You were the best bro' ever.

"Even when we used to fight and argue I still loved you anyway.''

Another note said: "To mummy and daddy's little soldier, forever in our hearts, love u always.''

The Sun has put up a £10,000 reward to help find the driver.

The paper said the reward would be paid for information directly resulting in the conviction of those responsible for Owen's death.

And the charity Crimestoppers said it was offering a reward of up to £5,000 for crucial information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.