Cleveland Police have named the two officers who died in this morning's collision on the A66 as PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough.
Chief Constable Victoria Fuller confirmed their identities during a press conference outside the force's headquarters in Hemlington, Middlesbrough, where flags are flying at half-mast. She described the deaths as an 'incredibly sad day for Cleveland', adding: 'These were brave officers protecting our communities and serving our residents who didn't return home to their families at the end of their shift.'
Seven people killed in wrong-way crash
The collision happened shortly after 3:30am when a Volkswagen Passat travelling the wrong way down the A66 near Middlesbrough collided with a police vehicle. A total of seven people died at the scene, including the two officers and five others, who have also now been formally identified.
Specialist family liaison officers are supporting the families of all the victims. The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, as is mandatory in such cases.
Force pledges full cooperation with investigation
Chief Constable Fuller said the force will comply fully with the investigation. She 'strongly' urged the public not to speculate on the matter and to respect the privacy of those grieving. Both she and the Deputy Chief Constable have visited the bereaved families to offer condolences as they 'begin to come to terms with this unimaginable loss'.
Fuller added that the impact of the deaths is being felt 'across communities, by our police family, and by our partner agencies'. It is understood the marked police car involved was not part of a pursuit; it was simply in the area at the time.
Major emergency response
The crash triggered a major emergency response, with the North East Ambulance Service confirming that 14 ambulance resources were dispatched to the scene. The force has asked the public to respect the privacy of those affected while the investigation continues.
