A police investigation has been launched following the tragic deaths of three people in a devastating crash on the A1 in Northumberland.
Emergency services rushed to a stretch of the major road on Thursday afternoon between Denwick and South Charlton. Reports indicate that a silver Volkswagen Polo was heading northbound when, for reasons yet to be determined, it collided with a red Hyundai i20 travelling in the opposite direction.
Officers attended the scene where, tragically, the male driver of the Hyundai, aged in his 80s, and the female passenger, aged in her 70s, were pronounced dead at the scene.
A female passenger from the Polo, aged in her 60s, also lost her life at the scene, while the male driver, also in his 60s, was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries. The next of kin of the occupants from the VW Polo have been notified and are currently receiving support from officers. Work is continuing to contact the next of kin of those in the Hyundai.
A portion of the road was shut following the collision for approximately seven hours before being reopened. Officers from the force's Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) have since commenced an investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are particularly keen to speak with anyone who was in the area at the time, as well as those who may have CCTV or dashcam footage.
Inspector Steven Clare, of Northumbria Police, said: "This is an incredibly tragic incident where three people have lost their lives – and one other person remains in a serious condition. Our thoughts remain firmly with all of their loved ones, and we are dedicated to getting them the answers they deserve. Our investigation is very much underway, and we are now appealing for further witnesses who may have been in the area to come forward."
"We know this is a very busy stretch of road through Northumberland – and there will have likely been many motorists passing in both directions. We're especially keen to hear from anyone who did initially stop at the scene to help but left prior to police arriving."
"We would also like anyone travelling that route at around 2.30pm who has dashcam footage to get in touch – even if they did not witness the collision, as the footage may still hold valuable information. If you were in the area or have any information that might help with our investigation, please don't hesitate to get in touch."
Anyone with relevant information, particularly those with CCTV or dashcam footage, is urged to contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media or through the live chat and report forms on the force's website. Those unable to make contact via these methods can ring 101. Quote reference number: NP-20260521-0621
