A 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after a young girl was run and over and killed in front of her family as she crossed a zebra crossing.

The youngster was rushed to hospital after being mown down in a hit-and-run crash on Reddings Lane, in Yardley, Birmingham at around 2.40pm on Thursday (11/11).

Police said the girl was using a zebra crossing with her family when she was hit by a silver Ford Galaxy and later died in hospital from her injuries.

The driver of the car failed to stop but officers arrested a man a short time later after locating his vehicle nearby.

Inspector Paul Hughes, from West Midlands Police, said: “The tragic death of such a young child is deeply saddening.

"Our thoughts are with the girl’s family at this incredibly distressing time.

“Our priority is supporting her family and ensuring that a thorough investigation is carried out.

“We understand the shock and worry this may have caused the community and ask people not to speculate on the circumstances.

“I’m keen to hear from anyone who was on Reddings Lane or the immediate vicinity and may have witnessed the collision or heard anything that may assist our investigation."

Anyone with information can email FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk, or contact the force via Live Chat or call 101.