A 77-year-old woman has tragically died following a bus crash in Manchester city centre yesterday.
Almena Amica was seriously injured and taken to hospital when a bus hit the TV Bubble Tea Cafe in Piccadilly Gardens at 1.15pm on Monday.
Known as ‘Mena’ to her family and friends, she had been a pedestrian at the time but died of her injuries.
Tribute
Almena’s family has issued the following tribute via Greater Manchester Police: “Mena was dedicated to her family, friends and faith.
“She loved music, gardening, TV soaps and nature. She was the senior member of our family, the eldest sister and great-great-aunt. She was well-loved, our matriarch, and her presence will be hugely missed.
“Mena was a private person and her family asks that this be respected during our time of mourning. We thank all the services and people who came to her aid.”
Eleven other people, both pedestrians and bus passengers, were either treated at the scene or in hospital for minor injuries.
A 64-year-old man has been bailed on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after being arrested at the scene.
Tragic incident
Sergeant Louise Warhurst, from GMP’s Serious Injury Collision Unit (SCIU), said: “This was a tragic incident witnessed by a lot of people in a busy area of the city centre.
“The investigation is progressing thanks to many calls with information received from the public.
“Anyone who has not yet spoken to officers but believes they are able to assist with enquiries should call 0161 856 4741 quoting log 1673 of 16/10/2023.”
Members of the public can also upload photos and video to the Major Incident Public Portal at https://mipp.police.uk/
