Police chief’s voice breaks as he confirms schoolgirl and driver dead in M53 horror crash

A Merseyside Police boss was visibly emotional as he delivered a press conference confirming the death of two people in a school bus crash on the M53 on Friday.

Chief Superintendent Graeme Robson said: “Sadly, I can confirm that the driver and a 14-year-old schoolgirl have died.

“Two children were taken from the scene to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. 50 other children were taken to an emergency training centre where they were medically assessed. Eight have been taken to the Countess of Chester and Arrowe Park Hospital.”

Mr Robson added: “Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends at this tragic time.”

He confirmed all children who witnessed the crash will be given specialist trauma support.