Family pay tribute to "kindest" 17-year-old girl who has sadly died following a collision in Bolton

The family of a 17-year-old girl who died from her injuries following a collision in Bolton have paid tribute to her and her ‘contagious happiness’.

Erica De Sousa Correia sadly died in hospital in the early hours of Tuesday morning (19 May), following injuries sustained in a collision on Walker Fold Road, Bolton, on 5 May.

Paying tribute, her family said: “Erica's happiness was contagious. She Loved to dance and sing and loved spending time in Portugal with her family . 

“Erica wanted to become a midwife as she loved children and also studied travel and tourism. She was incredibly intelligent and studied hard and got good grades in school .

“Erica was due to celebrate her 18^th birthday on the 1 June and was looking forward to having a party to celebrate her special day. Erica even had her outfit planned for her birthday.

“Erica was the kindest person and would call us if she saw a homeless person so we could give money to help. 

“Erica was the baby of our very close family.

“Our family cannot put into words our tragic loss and how much we will miss her. 

“Please respect our privacy at this very distressing time.” 

We continue to support the family of Erica at this time.

Since the collision, which occurred following a pursuit, a 17-year-old boy was charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving and has been bailed pending further enquiries.

An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct is ongoing at this time.