A FOUR-YEAR-OLD girl has died after being struck in a hit-and-run on Friday afternoon, police have confirmed.
Violet-Grace Youens passed away in hospital at 11.38pm on Saturday, in the arms of her mother, a statement on Facebook said.
Violet’s pancreas and both kidneys were donated following her death.
In a brief statement the family said that they were “devastated by the loss of their beautiful daughter but they wanted the organ donations to benefit other children and give them a chance to lead long and happy lives”.
Violet had been knocked down by a suspected stolen black Fiesta on Prescot Road, near to the junction of Dunriding Lane.
Violet-Grace’s grandmother was also hit and remained in hospital yesterday in a serious condition.
Angela French, 55, remains in serious but stable condition.
Flowers and teddies - carrying heartfelt messages - have been building at the scene.
Police have been hunting two young men who fled the car, which was abandoned at the scene, but have been tight-lipped about their investigation over the weekend.
In a message on social media last night (pictured above), Violet-Grace's mum Rebecca wrote: “My beautiful baby girl passed away in my arms on 25/03/2017 at 23:38. Thank you for all your well wishes... she was just too poorly.
“However, my brave baby girl saved two lives by donating her kidneys and pancreas. I am truly heartbroken but proud of my little fighter!
“Violet Grace Susan Youens 02/10/2012 - 25/03/2017 RIP baby girl.”
Violet-Grace is the daughter of Rebecca and Glenn. She leaves a 21-month-old brother Oliver.
The tragedy has sparked immense sadness across St Helens.
Detectives say they are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry as they hunt the occupants of the Fiesta.
Images of two men in sports kit – seen running away from the scene – were released on Friday and have been circulated widely.
The Fiesta car came to the attention of patrols shortly before being involved in the hit-and-run, say police.
It went on to strike a lamppost before the men fled.
My beautiful niece, taken far far far too soon. Sleep well my angel 😇 Goodnight #PrayForViolet pic.twitter.com/m4SH0BFSyd
— Rochdale SC40895 (@rochdale_sc) March 26, 2017
The first male police want to trace is described as white, aged 15-20, around 5ft 10in tall, of slim build, with brown hair. He was wearing a royal blue t-shirt and royal blue shorts.
The second male is described as being white, aged 15-20, with brown medium length hair.
He was wearing a black t-shirt and black shorts and dark trainers.
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