The family of a 16-year-old girl who died after being hit by a car in Gateshead has been left 'broken into a million pieces'. Jessica Metters, from Consett, was struck by a silver Ford Fiesta on Lobley Hill Road, near the Schoolhouse Lane junction, at around 10.40pm on Friday, June 12.
Emergency services attended the scene and Jessica was treated before being rushed to hospital, but she sadly died a short time later. Her family are now being supported by specially-trained Northumbria Police officers as investigations continue.
A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Heartbreaking Tribute
In a moving tribute shared through the police, Jessica's family said: 'We have lost our beautiful baby. Words can't describe the pain we are suffering. Jessica was the most loving, precious innocent little girl and cared so deeply for her loved ones.'
'She lit up every room she walked in and always made a good situation out of a bad one, with that cheeky little smile and most beautiful eyes. Our hearts hurt so bad without her here with us, we miss her so much already. Our family is broken into a million pieces.'
Police Appeal
Sergeant Ben Rutherford, of the Roads Policing Unit, said: 'We would reiterate that our thoughts remain firmly with Jessica's family and friends at this extremely difficult time. We continue to offer her next of kin support as they look to process the devastating events of the past week.'
'Our investigation into the collision remains very much ongoing and a number of lines of enquiry have been carried out. If you have information which you think may assist us, please get in touch and provide these details. They could prove vital in helping us ascertain exactly what happened.'
Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact police via social media, live chat, or the report forms on the Northumbria Police website. Alternatively, call 101 quoting reference number NP-20260612-1236.
