Oldham crash victims named by police

Clair and Sam died after two cars collided in Ripponden Road on Saturday

Clair (left) and Sam (right) died in a crash in Ripponden Road on Saturday
Author: Ted Hennessey, PA / Jonny FreemanPublished 25th Dec 2023

A mum and her teenager son who died in a crash in Oldham have been named by Greater Manchester Police.

Former theatre worker Clair, 42, and 15-year-old Year 11 pupil Sam, whose surnames were not released by police, died in the two-vehicle crash on Ripponden Road on Saturday afternoon (23rd December).

A 35 year old man who was driving one of the vehicles involved in the collision was arrested and remains in custody for questioning.

The family of Clair and Sam said:

"Clair was a smart, loving parent, daughter and sister who would do anything for anyone. Prior to the pandemic, Clair worked at the Bolton Theatre, supporting those facing mental health challenges.

"She loved going to pottery class every week and was such a creative person and she could go from a lump of clay to making whatever she put her mind to.

"Sam was in Year 11, looking forward to studying music at college; he loved to sing and to play the drums. Listening to music was one of Sam's favourite things to do, he was always around the house with his headphones on.

"When Sam wasn't listening to music, he could be found in a world of his own playing on his computer. Sam's family meant the world to him; he was a brother and son whose loss will leave a hole in our family forever.

"Christmas without Sam and Clair will be immensely difficult not only for us, but for everybody that knew them both."

Pc Thomas Johnson said: "Our thoughts continue to remain with their family who are being supported by officers at this really difficult time."

The serious collision investigation unit is appealing for anyone who may have seen the car, described as a Black BMW X5, or the crash to make contact.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting incident 2304 of December 23.

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