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.
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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.
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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.
