Newcastle: Six people including a 14-year-old arrested after teenager was killed in car crash

Six people, including five teenagers, have been arrested after a car crash in Newcastle killed a 15-year-old boy.

The accident occurred on Stamfordham Road, West Denton, at around 1.14am on Monday.

A Mazda vehicle had raised the suspicions of a police patrol car, which began following it at a distance, Northumbria Police said.

During a short pursuit, the police lost sight of the Mazda - which was then found to have left the road and hit nearby signage. No other vehicles were involved.

A 15-year-old boy died and another, aged 16, is in hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.

Five boys - three 16-year-olds, a 14-year-old and one aged 15 - have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

A 27-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. They have all been bailed.

Inspector Dean Hood, of Northumbria Police's roads policing unit, said: "This is a tragic incident where a young person has sadly lost their life.

"Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this extremely difficult time, and they are currently being supported by our specially-trained officers."

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A full investigation is now under way and anyone with information is being asked to contact Northumbria Police.

Inspector Hood also reminded people "to avoid speculation both online and in the community which could impact the investigation".

In line with standard procedure for events such as this, a referral has been made to the Independent Office of Police Conduct.