Salford Crash: Two Die As Parked Cars Hit

Two people have died in a crash involving seven vehicles in Greater Manchester.

Police were originally called to reports of an aggravated burglary taking place at a house in Farnworth, where a red Audi S4 Quattro was stolen.

The vehicle was spotted a few minutes later by a police patrol car travelling in the opposite direction.

Officers turned around in an effort to pursue the car but immediately lost sight of it.

A few minutes later, police received reports the Audi had collided with parked cars in Leigh Road, Boothstown, Salford, and had exploded in flames.

Two people were pronounced dead at the scene but neither have yet been identified.

Chief Superintendent Kevin Mulligan, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "Unfortunately, both people suffered some very serious injuries and we are working closely with the pathologist.

"I urge anyone who may know who they are to come forward. I know that there may be two families out there who have not been contacted by a loved one and our job is to make this devastating time as easy as possible for them."

It is believed thieves stole the keys to the Audi after smashing a window of a house in Boscombe Gardens.

They arrived at the property in a silver Vauxhall Vectra and made threats to a neighbour who was putting his bins out for collection, before both vehicles were driven off at speed.

Ch Supt Mulligan added: "A very thorough, detailed investigation has been launched to examine the circumstances surrounding last night's events.

"As part of this, a detailed forensic investigation is being carried out which will take time.

"I completely understand that residents living on Leigh Road will be absolutely shocked and upset to see the aftermath of this collision and the damage caused to a number of people's homes, and it is fortunate that more lives were not lost."