Multiple people have died after a police vehicle collided with a Volkswagen Passat on the A66 in northern England, according to Cleveland Police.
The fatal crash happened at about 3:39am on Saturday, August 22, in South Bank, near Middlesbrough in Teesside.
Cleveland Police confirmed that a police vehicle and the Volkswagen were involved. The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) later said three vehicles were involved in the collision. (Cleveland Police)
Police Confirm Multiple Fatalities
Emergency services rushed to the scene following the crash.
Cleveland Police said several people died despite efforts by emergency responders.
The force has started work to formally identify the victims and notify their families.
Police have also urged the public to avoid speculation while investigators establish exactly what happened.
A66 Closed in Both Directions
The crash has led authorities to close the A66 in both directions.
The affected section runs between Normanby Road and Church Lane.
Police said the road would remain closed for some time because emergency teams were still working at the scene.
Motorists have therefore been advised to find alternative routes and avoid the area.
Ambulance Service Sends 14 Crews
The North East Ambulance Service deployed 14 ambulances to the scene.
Despite the efforts of paramedics and other emergency personnel, several patients died at the location of the crash.
The ambulance service expressed its condolences to the families and everyone affected by the incident.
Investigation Underway
Meanwhile, investigators are working to establish the circumstances that led to the collision.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those who died.
They have also not disclosed the cause of the crash.
As a result, officials have asked members of the public to allow the investigation to take its course and avoid sharing unverified information.
Cleveland Police said the situation remains an evolving incident as emergency and investigative teams continue their work. (Cleveland Police)
Further information is expected as authorities confirm more details about the victims and the circumstances surrounding the collision.
For official updates, visit the Cleveland Police website.
