Grandmother killed in hit-and-run involving three cars

A 62-year-old woman has been killed in an alleged hit-and-run case involving at least three vehicles in Birmingham, police said.

Krishna Devi Droch was hit as she crossed a junction in Handsworth area of the city on Thursday. She was declared dead at the scene by emergency services.

Three people arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving have been released pending further investigation.

A fourth person, a 47-year-old man who handed himself in at a police station last night, was being questioned after being arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Police believe that three cars were involved in the incident, one of which was later found burnt up.

Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes of the local police collision investigation unit said: "We think that a Vauxhall Zafira was being followed by a Corsa and a Mondeo as it travelled along Rookery road. The Zafira then crossed to the wrong side of the road around a keep left bollard and it is at this point that it struck the victim as she crossed the road".

All three vehicles sped off after the collision and the Zafira was found burned out hours later.

"We have since also recovered the Corsa and the Mondeo and all three vehicles are being forensically examined. Specially trained officers continue to support the family and the thoughts of officers remain with them at this sad time," Hughes added.

The Droch family said in a statement issued through the police that "Our family has been left heartbroken. Krishna Devi Droch was not only a mother but a daughter, sister, grandmother and aunt. This is not only a loss to the family, but a loss to the community. Through her kindness and support she was the foundation of our family".

"Although nothing can ever replace what we have lost, her love and care will stay with us forever. We urgently appeal to anyone who has information about the incident ? please come forward," the statement added.