Man dies as car ploughs into Heywood White Lion pub and bursts into flames following police chase

A MAN has died after a car ploughed into a pub and burst into flames following a police chase

The vehicle smashed into the White Lion, in Heywood, Manchester, around 3am on Monday before it became engulfed in the fatal terror.

MEN MediaA man has died after a car crashed into a pub and burst into flames[/caption]

MEN MediaThe White Lion, in Heywood, Manchester, was damaged in the fatal smash[/caption]

MEN MediaFire crews have erected a tent outside the pub[/caption]

MEN MediaFloral tributes have been left at the scene[/caption]

The car, which is understood to be a Dacia Sandero, failed to stop for officers, say Greater Manchester Police.

Cops then pursued the driver before deciding to bring the chase to an end.

Shocking pictures from the scene show a burnt out car – with the make and model no longer identifiable.

The pub has also suffered damages in upsetting images which show the extent of the fire.

Fire crews have erected a tent outside the pub and forensic teams are combing the area.

Greater Manchester Police has referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The tragic victim has not yet been identified.

Floral tributes have today been left at the scene.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “Shortly after 3.15am this morning (Monday, 1 July), four fire engines from Rochdale, Heywood and Bury fire stations attended a building fire on York Street, Heywood.

“Crews arrived quickly and used four hose reel jets and four breathing apparatus to extinguish the fire.

“Road closures are in place and firefighters remain in attendance at this time.”

Anyone with any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting log number 299 of 01/07/24.