British police investigating a car crash in north-east England that killed seven people, including two police officers, have arrested 12 people in a probe into organised criminal activity linked to the incident.
A further 12 people were arrested over alleged criminality leading up to the collision near Middlesbrough, police said on Monday. The suspects were held on suspicion of offences ranging from possession of a firearm to participating in the activities of an organised crime group.
The crash happened when a Volkswagen Passat, believed to be using cloned plates, was driven the wrong way on the A66 and collided with a marked police vehicle, killing Cleveland Police officers PC Matthew Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38, along with five occupants of the Passat.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct is examining the police contact with the Passat before the collision, including a pursuit that ended shortly before the crash.
Your News Website is following updates from Cleveland Police, the IOPC and Reuters.
Such sad news. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.
This is an incredibly tragic situation, and my heart goes out to the families and friends of all those who lost their lives, especially the two brave police officers. It’s hard to comprehend the impact of such reckless actions on the community. I hope the investigation brings some clarity and justice for everyone affected.