Mum killed in hit-and-run 'a beacon of light'

Tributes have been paid to the "most awesomest mum" who was killed after being hit by a car that failed to stop.

Safia Karieem, 51, died after she was knocked down on Sunday in Manchester Road, Nelson, Lancashire.

A family statement described her as "a beacon of light and kindness to those who knew her, and her absence is keenly felt by those whose lives she touched".

Lancashire Police said five people arrested in connection with its investigation have been bailed.

Her eldest daughter, 26-year-old Tahreem, paid a personal tribute to her mum, writing: "Your love was boundless; your kindness was unmatched.

"The way you are taken from us is unbearable, and the pain of losing you is overwhelming.

"I love you a lot mum."

Her younger sister Rijja, 13, added: "I just want to say that my mum was the most awesomest mum I could ever ask for.

"Hearing the news hurt my heart but she is in a better place now and I hope she gets lots of presents in heaven and meets my grandparents."

Det Ch Insp John McNamara said Ms Karieem's children had paid a "heartbreaking tribute" to their mum.

"First and foremost, my thoughts remain with Safia's children and her loved ones, at what must be an incredibly difficult time," he said.

He appealed for information or dashcam footage of the blue VW Golf which hit Ms Karieem on Manchester Road or as it headed towards the Pennine Crescent area.

Two 19-year-old men, a 20-year-old woman and a 17-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and a 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to [email protected] and via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.