The mother of an 18-year-old motorcyclist killed in a collision with a skip in Northumberland has described her family as 'broken' as they await the conclusion of a police investigation that could take up to two years.
Fatal Collision in Nedderton Village
Justin Riddell, from Bedlington, was riding his road-legal motorbike on Saturday, June 20, in Nedderton Village when he collided with a skip that was on the road. He sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. Northumbria Police confirmed the incident and released a tribute from his family, who described Justin as 'an adored son' whose death left an 'unfillable space in the lives of everyone who loved him.'
Mother's Heartbreaking Tribute
Almost two weeks after the tragedy, Justin's mother, Angie Riddell, spoke of her grief. She said the ongoing police investigation could take between six months and two years, leaving the family in limbo. 'The hardest thing for us is not knowing exactly what happened, and why the skip was on the road where it shouldn't have been,' she said. 'We are just broken as a family, and we were always four, so it feels impossible to accept that we are now just three.'
Angie described Justin as a 'good person' who never broke the law and took pride in doing things properly. He was diagnosed with ADHD at an older age, which helped him find his feet. He loved building Lego, gaming, and motorbikes, and worked at a pub where he was 'the life and soul of the place.'
Community Support and Fundraiser
To help with funeral costs and other expenses, family friend Leanne Savage set up a GoFundMe page, which has raised £5,478 at the time of writing. Angie expressed gratitude: 'We want to say how grateful we are to Leanne and everyone who donates. This financial help feels like a big burden off our shoulders when we are going through so much emotional pain.'
Police Appeal for Information
Northumbria Police is appealing for any witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward. They can be contacted via social media direct message, live chat, or the report forms on the police website. Those unable to use these methods should call 101, quoting reference number NP-20260620-1352.
