A man in his 70s has died after being hit by a car in Gateshead, Northumbria Police have confirmed. The collision happened in the Leam Lane area on Monday afternoon.
Just after 4.45pm, police received a report of a collision on Wealcroft near the Staneway junction. The man was on the road when he was struck by a blue Volvo S40. Emergency services, including the Great North Air Ambulance Service, attended, but the man sadly passed away at the scene.
Arrest and Bail
An 18-year-old was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.
The man's next of kin have been informed and continue to be supported. Floral tributes have been placed near the scene of the collision.
Investigation and Appeal
Officers from Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) have launched an investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the collision. They are appealing for witnesses to come forward, especially anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage of the incident itself, or the moments leading up to it.
Sergeant Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police, said: "Our sincere thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones at this very difficult time. I would like to express my heartfelt condolences following this tragic incident, and we will continue to support them in any way that we can.
"We would urge anyone who has information about the incident – no matter how small you feel it may be – to get in touch with us if you have not yet done so."
Anyone with information or footage should contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, or by using live chat and report forms on the Force’s website. Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101, quoting reference number NP-20261012-0643.