A 16-year-old boy has died and another teenager is in critical condition after a crash involving an electric motorbike and a car in Taunton, Somerset. The boys hit a stationary car at a set of traffic lights on Haydon Road at around 10:20pm on Thursday.
Teen pronounced dead at the scene
After the crash, the 16-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. The second teenager was transported to hospital by air ambulance, where he is fighting for his life.
Avon and Somerset Police has launched an investigation into the fatal incident. Officers are looking for the motorbike, which was not left at the site of the crash.
Police appeal and road closure
East Reach was closed for several hours overnight. It reopened on Friday morning.
A police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with the boy’s family at this incredibly sad and difficult time.”
“His family have been notified and they will be supported by a specially-trained officer going forward.”
Separate Sunderland tragedy update
The Taunton crash follows the news of an update from a separate tragedy. The three teenagers who died after a car crashed into the River Wear in Sunderland have been named and pictured.
Jackson Duke, 17, and Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw, both aged 16, were all in the car when it swerved off the road at Panns Bank near Wearmouth Bridge and entered the water.
The investigation into the circumstances leading to the car entering the water remains ongoing. Enquiries are at an early stage, but no other vehicles are believed to have been involved, police also said. Another occupant of the car – a 17-year-old boy – reached safety and sustained non-serious injuries. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and he remains in police custody at this time.
