Hit-and-run car that killed girl, 11, was hired

A CAR involved in a hit-and-run in which an 11-year-old girl died was hired, detectives have revealed.

Children leave tributes on Sandbank Street, Glasgow, for Sophie Brannan. Picture: Hemedia

Sophie Brannan died after she and two others were hit by a black Vauxhall Astra which mounted the pavement in the Maryhill area of Glasgow on Friday.

Her 10-year-old friend Chelsea Sommerville suffered a fractured leg while Chelsea’s uncle Joseph Lloyd, 36, is being treated for a fractured shoulder, Police Scotland said.

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The driver failed to stop and the car was later found abandoned in a nearby street.

Police appealed for information about the incident which happened in Sandbank Street at around 7.40pm and appealed for the driver to “do the right thing” and come forward.

Detective Superintendent Stevie Grant said: “We know that the car involved had been hired and we also know who had access to it. However, we cannot, at this time say that the person who hired it was the driver involved in the crash.

“We have yet to trace the person who hired this car and I would urge him to come forward and speak to police at the earliest opportunity.”

After striking the pedestrians, the five-door black vehicle travelled towards Lochburn Road where it collided with a taxi. The driver then abandoned the car and he ran off towards the canal.

He is described as white, aged 25 to 35, of a medium build with short shaven hair. He was wearing a dark jacket, dark jeans and white trainers.

Det Supt Grant added: “The thoughts of the officers involved in the investigation and that of Police Scotland are with the family of Sophie Brannan, and the injured parties Chelsea Sommerville and her uncle Joseph Lloyd.

“So far, the response from the local community has been excellent however we need further information. I would appeal to anyone who saw the crash or the vehicle involved, either before or after the incident to come forward. People may not realise that a little bit of information could be vital to this investigation.

“It is imperative that we trace the person responsible. I would urge anyone who knows who this man is to get in touch. I would also appeal to him to do the right thing and come forward.”

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