Makai Saddington, 18, one of the five men killed in the wrong-way crash on the A66 that also claimed the lives of two police officers, was awaiting trial on charges of racially abusing and assaulting policemen.
Saddington had been accused of assaulting sergeant Rooker of Cleveland Police and causing racially aggravated alarm or distress to a PC Chowdhury, according to reports.
He was one of five occupants in the VW Passat being driven the wrong way down the A66 dual carriageway near Middlesbrough when it collided with a police car, killing PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough instantly.
Court appearance before the crash
Saddington, of no fixed address, made his first appearance in court on July 17 at Teesside magistrates, before the case was adjourned to a later date.
He died alongside Michael Robert Cahill, 23, Theo Rae, 17, Cole Robert Worthy, 17, and Jacob Matusiak, 23, in the crash in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Prior to the fatal crash, Saddington had posted a number of clips to social media showing himself in previous police chases.
Tributes to the officers
A GoFundMe page has been launched to help raise funds for the families of the two police officers killed in the crash.
PC Clough's family issued a statement saying: "He was our hero with a fantastic sense of humour. Jumped into action whenever needed, and willing to help anyone for any reason.
"Proudly fought for his country to make the world a better place. Always on public duty throughout his short life. We as a family and Tom's partner would like to express our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences from friends, colleagues and the wider community."
PC Blades' wife Sarah, the mother of their two young sons, said her husband had been "loved beyond words" and was "an incredible father". She added: "No words will ever feel like the right words to honour our Matt.
"He was an adored son and brother, a perfect son-in-law, and the most fun uncle. He was loved beyond words by all his family and friends, and his loss has left a space that can never be filled.
"He gave his life in the line of duty, protecting and serving others with courage, dedication and selflessness. The pain of losing him is beyond words, and our lives will never be the same. Neither will the love he gave us ever fade.
"Our children will grow up knowing what an incredible father he was and will always be, and I will carry his love, his memory and everything we shared with me always."
