A teenager who died after a suspected stolen car crashed while being chased by police in Wigan has been named locally as Leo Gradwell.

The 14-year-old was believed to have been behind the wheel of the Fiat 500 when it hit two other cars on Ashton Road in Golborne on Friday afternoon.

Today Leo's picture has been left at the scene alongside balloons spelling out his name and messages from his siblings.

One said: "Leo I love you so much. I'll always think of you and you'll never be forgotten. Lots of love your baby sister Casey Moo."

(Image: Manchester Evening News)

Dozens of friends have also paid tribute to him on social media.

One friend wrote: "Yesterday and last night honestly was the hardest.

"To wake up at 4.20 to check my phone for any news and to see leos passed just an hour before was literally the worst pain I could of ever felt, not only did he help me through everything but he was the strongest most kindhearted lad I ever knew, still can’t wrap my head around what’s happened, all this from some silly mistake they made, seeing him the way he was broke my heart, cannot imagine what his family are going through.

"My heart really does go out to his family.

(Image: Manchester Evening News)

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"RIP Leo Gradwell, will miss you so much."

Another widely shared message on Facebook reads: "Let’s turn Facebook bright and beautiful for LEO! R.I.P LEO GRADWELL FLY HIGH.

"Let’s make Facebook bright in remembrance for Leo."

(Image: Manchester Evening News)

Leo was taken to hospital, but sadly passed away in the early hours of Saturday.

Two other boys in the car were also injured in the crash.

One of them, a 14-year-old, suffered minor injuries and has since been discharged.

Today police said a 15-year-old remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Police say the chase began when the Fiat failed to stop for police on Warrington Road in Abram at around 1.25pm.

The crash is thought to have taken place close to a bend on the 40mph road near a farmer's field and a row of bungalows.

The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct by GMP’s Professional Standards Branch.

The office said: "We have made initial contact with the boy's family to explain our involvement and express our condolences."

"Anyone who witnessed events leading up to the collision is asked to contact the IOPC on 0800 096 9070 or email: witness@policeconduct.gov.uk."

In a statement yesterday Sgt Jon McColl, of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "First and foremost, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the boy who passed away this morning.

"The Serious Collision Investigation Unit is continuing with enquiries so that the full circumstances surrounding the collision can be established."