Heartbreak as Northumbria Police officer dies in the line of duty. PC Jess Turnbull, aged 19, died in the line of duty after a collision on the A189 Spine Road in Cramlington. She was responding to a collision on the road, close to Moor Farm Roundabout, at about 11.10pm on Monday (June 8) when she was struck by a black Mercedes CLC which was unconnected to the original incident.
Jess was taken to hospital with serious injuries but sadly died on Wednesday, surrounded by her loved ones. A 73-year-old man was arrested at the scene of the collision on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He has subsequently been further arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been bailed, Northumbria Police confirmed.
Early Career and Lasting Impression
Jess started her career with Northumbria Police in September 2025, working on the Response Policing Team (RPT) based in South-East Northumberland. Despite being at the very start of her policing career, Jess had already made a lasting impression on colleagues through her dedication, professionalism, and readiness to help people, said Northumbria Police Federation chair Nick Munnelly. He added: Jess's service, however brief, will not be forgotten, and she remains in the thoughts of all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.
Tributes from Officials
Northumbria Police & Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: Jessica had chosen a life of service to others, and her loss is a reminder of the risks police officers face every single day while doing their best to keep our communities safe. She will be remembered in so many ways, and with gratitude for committing herself to a career of putting others first.
Northumbria Police Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine said: Jess was relatively new in service, with so much still to look forward to in her career and life. She was a dedicated and committed officer who always sought to do her best to keep her communities safe.
