In a harrowing incident that has left a community reeling, police are actively pursuing leads in the tragic death of Alana Armstrong, a 25-year-old mother who was killed in a hit-and-run accident involving an e-bike. The unfortunate event unfolded in Pleasley, Derbyshire, on a Tuesday evening, specifically around 8:00 PM GMT, when Alana was a passenger on one of two e-bikes being pursued by a dark-coloured 4×4 vehicle. It’s reported that the driver of the e-bike was a man in his twenties, who subsequently suffered severe injuries, including the amputation of one of his legs below the knee, after the vehicle collided with their bike.
This incident has necessitated the initiation of a murder inquiry by Derbyshire Police. They have confirmed the identities of the two main individuals initially apprehended in connection with the case, a man and a woman, who have since been released without charge. Ch Supt Dave Kirby of Derbyshire Police expressed condolences for Alana’s family, stating that Alana’s young son and her loved ones would never get the opportunity to see her, hug her, or celebrate important milestones together again. The emotional toll of this tragedy has been palpable, with concerns shared not only for the immediate family but also for the broader community that knew Alana.
Getting a clearer picture of the events leading to the crash, police have stated that the dark-coloured vehicle, suspected to be a Land Rover Discovery built between 2004 and 2009, aggressively pursued the e-bikes through Pleasley, making its way down Batley Lane before turning onto the A617 in a direction toward New Houghton. As part of their investigation, detectives are calling upon the public to assist and share any sightings of the vehicle around Pleasley at the time of the incident. They are particularly keen to gather information that could help them track down the vehicle and its occupants.
Ch Supt Kirby emphasized the importance of community involvement and acknowledged the amount of information they’ve already received from the locals. However, he believes more witnesses must have observed something pertinent to the case that could help bring justice to Alana. He reiterated the call for information, urging the driver of the vehicle involved to come forward and share their side of the story, echoing a sentiment of responsibility and community solidarity.
In a poignant reflection of the tragic impacts such incidents can have on families, Kirby expressed personal devastation over the loss of Alana. As a member of both the police force and the local community, he underscored the compassion and care owed to Alana’s child, who now faces a future without their mother. This case is underscored by a crucial understanding that every detail shared by the public could hold the key to a resolution.
The circumstances surrounding Alana’s death have ignited a wave of grief and outrage, highlighting the pressing issue of road safety, especially concerning the use of e-bikes in increasingly populated areas. As the investigation continues, Derbyshire Police reassure the public that there is currently no broader threat and urge residents to remain vigilant, encouraging anyone with information to come forward. As this community begins to cope with the loss of Alana Armstrong, the pursuit of justice remains at the forefront of everyone’s mind.
