A pensioner died after being knocked over by a hit-and-run rider on a mobility scooter.

The 84-year-old grandmother suffered a broken hip in the incident, which happened as she was crossing a road in Sunderland.

It is thought the woman riding the electric-powered buggy said she was going to call for an ambulance to help the stricken victim, but left the scene and did not return.

The badly injured pensioner was taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital for surgery and stayed there for 12 weeks but died on August 6.

The death was reported to the Sunderland coroner by the hospital, which was concerned that it was linked to the crash.

Now the coroner has opened an inquest and launched an investigation, including an appeal for witnesses to come forward.

The incident happened as the victim was crossing the road at Toward Road, beside the top of Peel Street in Hendon, between noon and 1pm on May 14.

Northumbria Police investigated the incident and checked nearby CCTV footage but could not locate the scooter rider.

Because electric-powered buggies are not classed as motor vehicles under road traffic legislation, the rider cannot be prosecuted for a motoring offence.

Although they could face prosecution for inflicting injuries against the person, such as assault or even manslaughter.

Police are appealing for witnesses.

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