A MAN was killed when he was hit by a bus less than half a mile from his home in Cricklewood on Sunday.

The crash involving a pedestrian and a double decker bus happened in Chichele Road, at the junction with Cricklewood Broadway, at about 7pm.

Police and Ambulance crews attended the scene and found a 55-year-old man with serious injuries. A statement from Scotland Yard said John Mulligan, of Ivy Road, was taken to a west London hospital where he died a short time later.

Officers said next of kin have been informed and a post mortem is due to be held tomorrow at Northwick Park hospital.

An inquest is due to open and adjourn in due course.

The bus involved was the route 266 which travels from Brent Cross Shopping Centre to Hammersmith.

Police Sergeant Chris Osborne, of Alperton Traffic Garage, said they are appealing for witnesses and information following the fatal collision.

He said: “We know the area was very busy at the time of the collision and we would urge anyone who witnessed the collision to come forward.

“We are particularly keen to speak to any of the passengers who were on the route number 266 bus at the time. A number of people also came to the aid of Mr Mulligan and we would like to ask them to call us."

Witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call the Collision Investigation Unit on 020 8998 5319.

A 33-year-old man was later arrested on Sunday on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He was taken to a west London police station and bailed to return in late June pending further enquiries.