A teenager has died after being hit by a car while crossing a busy road in a Norfolk town.

The 15-year-old was struck by a Hyundai Ioniq on London Road, near the centre of Thetford.

The tragedy occurred at about 11.45am on Saturday, at the pedestrian crossing next to Icknield Way.

Emergency services, including the air ambulance, were called to the crash but despite treatment, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

London Road is a busy route through the town, connecting it to the nearby A11.

In February, the speed limit on the stretch of road was reduced from 40mph to 30mph after a safety campaign.

Eastern Daily Press: Thetford Burrell Ward councillor Chris HarveyThetford Burrell Ward councillor Chris Harvey (Image: Emily Thomson (staff))

Thetford Burrell district councillor Chris Harvey said: "This is a tragic accident and a young boy's life has been cut short.

"My thoughts and sympathies are with the family.

"I am prepared to help and support them as best I can at this difficult time." 

The road remained closed for a number of hours following the crash and a police investigation is under way.

It is the second tragedy on the road within a quarter of a mile in recent weeks.

In February, a 51-year-old woman was killed after her BMW 2 Series collided with a flatbed lorry.

London Road was one of six in Thetford to have had the speed limit reduced from 40mph to 30mph following a successful road safety campaign launched in 2019.

It followed the death of 72-year-old Clifford ‘Cliffy’ James, who was killed after being hit by a van while crossing the A1066, Mundford Road.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed Saturday's collision or seen either the car, which was heading towards the A11, or the pedestrian prior to the incident.

Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who may have been travelling in the area at the time and may have relevant dash-cam footage.

Witnesses should contact Norfolk Police on 101 and ask to speak to the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, quoting incident reference 132 of May 13.