The two police officers who died in a crash on the A66 have been named as PC Matthew Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38. They were among seven people who lost their lives in the incident.
The officers were killed after a Volkswagen Passat, travelling the wrong way along the carriageway in South Bank, struck their marked police vehicle, which was heading in the correct direction.
Investigation launched following mandatory referral
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the events leading up to the collision at 3.39am in South Bank, following a mandatory referral from Cleveland Police.
It is understood that Cleveland Police officers had spotted a suspicious vehicle and gave chase before the car entered the A66 and collided with a police car, the watchdog confirmed. The two officers killed are not thought to have been involved in the police pursuit of the other vehicle but were in the area at the time.
Chief Constable pays tribute to 'brave officers'
Speaking outside Cleveland Police headquarters in Hemlington, Chief Constable Victoria Fuller said: "This is an incredibly sad day for Cleveland. This loss is being felt across our communities, by our police family, and by our partner agencies."
"These were brave officers, protecting our communities and serving our residents. Who didn't return home to their families at the end of their shift," she added, reports Teesside Live.
"My thoughts, and the thoughts of everyone at Cleveland Police, are with their families, friends, colleagues and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. Earlier today, the Deputy Chief Constable and I visited Matthew and Tom's families to offer our condolences, support one another, and begin to come to terms with this unimaginable loss."
Formal identification completed
Formal identification of the occupants of the Volkswagen Passat has now been completed, with specialist family liaison officers deployed to support those who have lost loved ones. The force has confirmed that support is available for officers and staff affected by the tragic incident.
"As is mandatory following any death connected to a police incident, we have referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) and are fully cooperating with their investigation," said Chief Constable Fuller.
"While this investigation is ongoing, and out of respect for all those who have lost loved ones, I would strongly urge people to avoid speculation and respect the privacy of the families."
Political leaders express condolences
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he was "devastated" to hear about the crash. Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey has said: "There are few words that can bring comfort to the family, friends and colleagues of the seven people who have lost their lives in this tragic incident."
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected and with those who are continuing to come to terms with this unimaginable loss, including colleagues at Cleveland Police, who will feel the profound loss of two of their serving officers."
"On behalf of everyone at the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the people of Cleveland, I extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of all seven people who lost their lives."
