An 11-year-old boy is in critical condition in hospital after being hit by a police car in Lancaster.

The boy was crossing the road shortly before 8:30 p.m. Thursday evening when he was hit.

Lancaster Police said their vehicle was on its way to an emergency call and the collision is being investigated.

He was also referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, as is normal for such an incident.

An IOPC spokesperson said: “We understand that a marked police car, with its lights and siren on, crashed into an 11-year-old boy.

“He was taken to hospital and our hearts go out to him and his family.

“We were notified by the force shortly after the collision and announced the opening of an investigation at 10.37pm.

“IOPC investigators are going to the scene and post-incident police procedures to begin gathering information.

“Our investigation is at an early stage.”

Police appealed for any information, including CCTV footage or camera footage from nearby, adding: “Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this time.”