The girl, 14, was struck by a Mercedes near Rowley Regis train station in Sandwell, West Midlands, at around 4:45 pm on Friday. Paramedics rushed to the scene on Station Road but the girl was pronounced dead just before 5:30 pm. The driver, a 39-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence of drugs. He is being held in custody while officers investigate the incident.

       Sergeant Julie Lyman from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at West Midlands Police said: “This is a truly awful way to start the New Year and my heart goes out to the girl’s family and friends.

       “We’ve started an investigation to understand what happened and the driver has been arrested as we believe he was driving while unfit through drugs.

       “The investigation is clearly in the early stages and I would urge people not to speculate online about what happened.

       “It’s really not helpful and can be very upsetting for the family.”

       West Midlands Police are urging anyone who witnessed the accident, or who has dash-cam footage of the event to come forward.

       The force has said that anyone with information should message officers via Live Chat on its website or email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit directly at FL_COLLISION_INVEST@westmidlands.police.uk.

       The victim's family are being supported by specially trained officers.

       More to follow..