Woman, 77, dies following Piccadilly Gardens bus crash

A 77-year-old woman has sadly died following a bus collision in Piccadilly Gardens yesterday afternoon.

All emergency services rushed to the scene next to Piccadilly Gardens at around 1pm on Monday, October 16th.

A pedestrian, Almena Amica, 77, from south Manchester – known as ‘Mena’ to her family and friends – was taken to hospital with serious injuries but sadly later died. 

Almena’s family has issued the following tribute via Greater Manchester Police: “Mena was dedicated to her family, friends and faith.

“She loved music, gardening, TV soaps and nature. She was the senior member of our family, the eldest sister and great-great-aunt. She was well-loved, our matriarch, and her presence will be hugely missed.

“Mena was a private person and her family asks that this be respected during our time of mourning. We thank all the services and people who came to her aid.”

The other 11 people involved, both pedestrians and bus passengers, were either treated at the scene or in hospital for minor injuries.

A 64-year-old man has been bailed on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after being arrested at the scene.

Sergeant Louise Warhurst, from Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Injury Collision Unit (SCIU), said: “This was a tragic incident witnessed by a lot of people in a busy area of the city centre.

“The investigation is progressing thanks to many calls with information received from the public.

“Anyone who has not yet spoken to officers but believes they are able to assist with enquiries should call 0161 856 4741 quoting log 1673 of 16/10/2023.”