Two police officers, PC Matthew Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38, were among seven individuals killed in a tragic car crash on the A66 near Middlesbrough. The incident occurred around 03:39 BST when a Volkswagen Passat carrying five teenage occupants traveling the wrong way collided head-on with a marked Cleveland Police vehicle. Reports indicate that the police pursuit of the Passat had concluded prior to the crash, and the police vehicle was not actively in pursuit at the time.
All occupants of both vehicles were pronounced dead at the scene. The police chief has referred to the officers as “brave,” highlighting the devastating impact of the collision on their families and the community.
Security camera footage captured a police chase nearby just minutes before a tragic crash at 03:39 BST. However, it has been clarified that the officers involved, PC Matthew Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38, were not part of the pursuit and merely happened to be in the vicinity when it occurred. The chase had actually been abandoned prior to the incident.
Cleveland Chief Constable Victoria Fuller commended the officers as “brave” individuals dedicated to protecting their communities and urged the public to refrain from speculation while the Independent Office for Police Conduct conducts its investigation into the incident.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed his devastation over the fatalities, extending his condolences to the victims’ families. Chief Constable Fuller emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that it was an “incredibly sad day for Cleveland,” and highlighted the importance of ensuring that no one leaves home without the expectation of returning safely. She reiterated that these officers were serving the community, emphasizing their commitment to public safety, a commitment that sadly cost them their lives that day.
Fuller expressed her condolences and support to the families of officers affected by a tragic incident, emphasizing the unimaginable loss they are facing. She and her deputy chief constable visited the families to offer assistance and initiate the process of coming to terms with the event. The incident has had a significant impact on the local community in Cleveland and within the policing family.
PM Andy Burnham Pays Tribute After Deadly A66 Crash
Prime Minister Andy Burnham conveyed his devastation over the news and extended gratitude to emergency services for their work in extraordinarily challenging conditions. Additionally, security footage from a residence on Lime Road in Middlesbrough captured a police pursuit of a car just three minutes prior to the crash, highlighting the critical nature of the events leading up to this tragedy.
Fuller stated that officers were operating within a marked armed response vehicle and were correctly positioned on the road. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated an investigation into the incident. According to the IOPC, initial reports indicate that Cleveland Police identified a suspicious vehicle, leading to a subsequent pursuit.
The crash occurred on the A66, a critical transportation route in Teesside, specifically in an area characterized by numerous industrial units and factories. As a result of the incident, the A66 has been closed in both directions between Normanby Road and Church Lane, with authorities indicating that the closure will remain effective for the remainder of the day.
The North East Ambulance Service reported that they dispatched 14 ambulance resources in response to a tragic event. They expressed condolences to those affected and gratitude towards all who assisted. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood voiced her support for the police force as they work to identify all individuals involved. She acknowledged the daily risks police officers take to safeguard their communities, extending her thoughts to the victims, their families and friends, the emergency services present at the scene, and the broader police community.
Cleveland police and crime commissioner Matt Storey expressed profound grief over the tragic incident involving the loss of police officers, characterizing it as an “unimaginable loss” and emphasizing that “few words [could] bring comfort” to those impacted. Anna Turley, the MP for Redcar, echoed the sentiment of deep sadness and extended gratitude to emergency services for their efforts. Lauren Somerville, chairwoman of the Cleveland Police Federation, lamented the loss as “unfathomable,” stating that “words cannot describe the pain the Cleveland Police family are feeling today.”
Additionally, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp offered condolences while highlighting the importance of allowing the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) the necessary time and space to conduct their investigations without speculation. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen described the situation as a “horrible and tragic incident,” paying tribute to the bravery of the police officers involved, referring to them as “heroes.”