A young police officer who sustained serious injuries while attending a collision has died in hospital.
Northumbria Police's Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine today paid tribute to PC Jess Turnbull, who passed away yesterday, saying she made the "ultimate sacrifice" to keep our communities safe.
The 19-year-old, who joined the force last September, was reportedly struck by a black Mercedes CLC while responding to an incident on the A189, in Cramlington, Northumberland, on Monday night. The Mercedes was not involved in the initial collision.
Chief Cons Jardina said the force was in mourning as she paid tribute to Jess, reports Chronicle Live. She said: "It is with deep sadness that we share the tragic news that police officer Jess Turnbull has died in the line of duty.
"This is an extremely tragic incident where Jess lost her life while serving and protecting our communities. Jess was responding to a collision in Cramlington.
"While at the scene she was struck by a car that was unconnected with the original incident. She was taken to hospital where yesterday, surrounded by her loved ones she tragically died.
"Our thoughts very much continue to be with her family, friends and all those who have been impacted by this devastating loss. We will continue to support her loved ones in any way we can.
"Policing is a family, and we are mourning the passing of not only a colleague and a friend, but also our own family member, and we will continue to support each other during this extremely difficult time.
"Jess was relatively new in service, with so much still to look forward to in her career and life. She was a dedicated and committed officer who always sought to do her best to keep her communities safe.
"Every single day police officers up and down the country face danger to protect the public. Thankfully, most go home, tragically on this occasion Jess did not. I'm grateful to all those who wear the uniform with pride to keep us all safe. Jess made the ultimate sacrifice and will never be forgotten."
The flag at Northumbria Police's headquarters in Wallsend was lowered to half mast today as a mark of respect.
A 73-year-old man, who was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, was taken to hospital before subsequently being discharged. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released on bail.
Jess had been responding to reports of a collision between a Land Rover Freelander and a Ford Explorer at around 11.10pm on Monday when she was allegedly struck. Officers confirmed she was standing outside a marked police vehicle at the time.
The road remained closed for over 16 hours following the incident. Northumbria Police has urged those wishing to pay their respects to Jess to refrain from visiting the scene on safety grounds. Floral tributes can be placed at the flagpole outside the force's headquarters, located in Middle Engine Lane.
Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, paid tribute, saying: "No words can ease the pain they will be experiencing at this time, but my thoughts are with PC Jess Turnbull's family, friends and colleagues as they come to terms with this unimaginable loss.
"Jessica had chosen a life of service to others, and her loss is a reminder of the risks police officers face every single day while doing their best to keep our communities safe. She will be remembered in so many ways, and with gratitude for committing herself to a career of putting others first. Heartfelt condolences go to everyone who knew and loved Jess, from myself and the team here at the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner."
Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses and anyone with information is urged to get in touch with Northumbria Police, quoting reference number: NP-20260608-1198.
