Hundreds turn out for funeral of 11-year-old Iman Javed killed in motorway crash

Neeli Mosque

Over 500 people turned out on Friday (27 January) at Neeli Mosque for the funeral of 11-year-old Iman Javed, who was tragically killed in a collision on the M61 motorway on Monday 23 January, which has left her father fighting for his life.

Iman and her father, Javed Iqbal, were travelling southbound on the M61 in a Volkswagen Sharan and were involved in a collision with a Renault Clio, also travelling southbound, near Junction 9 at 10.30pm. A Volvo HGV then crashed into both vehicles.

Iman suffered serious injuries and she died at the scene. Three other passengers from the Sharan were also injured during the crash with the occupants of the other vehicles were unhurt.

Mr Iqbal, in his 40s, remains in a critical condition at Royal Preston Hospital after also receiving serious injuries.

A spokesperson for Neeli Mosque said: “Iman Javed's funeral was held at the Neeli Mosque, Deeplish on Friday afternoon. Over 500 people attended from family, friends and the local community, including some of her class mates.

“It was a very sombre occasion for the whole community. Iman was laid to rest in the new Denehurst Park Cemetery on Sandy Lane, Rochdale.

“Neeli Mosque was open to the public all afternoon and people from Rochdale and beyond were able to come and pay their tributes and condolences to the family. The Mosque congregation also prayed and continues to do so for Iman's father, Javed, who is still in a critical condition and being cared for at Preston hospital. We wish him a full and speedy recovery and his family the strength to cope at this difficult time.”

Sgt Dave Hurst, from the Road Policing Unit, said: “This was a horrendous collision in which a young girl has very sadly lost her life.

“I would appeal for any witnesses to contact us, especially anyone who may have any dashcam footage of the incident, or anyone driving in that area at around the time of the collision.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log number 1454 of 23 January.