A family has been left 'broken into a million pieces' after a 16-year-old girl was tragically killed in a car accident. Jessica Metters, from Consett, was struck by a vehicle in Gateshead, prompting a heartfelt tribute from her loved ones describing her as a 'beautiful baby'.
The Incident
The collision occurred at Lobley Hill Road in Gateshead, near the Schoolhouse Lane junction, at approximately 10:40 PM on June 12. Police responded to the scene, where Jessica had been hit by a silver Ford Fiesta. Emergency services treated her at the scene before transporting her to the hospital, where she sadly passed away a short time later.
Northumbria Police officers, specially trained to support bereaved families, are providing assistance to Jessica's relatives as investigations into the fatal crash continue.
Arrest and Bail
A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released on bail while police conduct further enquiries.
Family Tribute
In a touching statement shared through the police, Jessica's grieving 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.'
Those with information or footage are asked to contact police via social media direct message, live chat, or report forms on the force's website. Alternatively, call 101 quoting reference NP-20260612-1236.
