A young police officer who was seriously injured while attending a collision has tragically died in hospital.
Northumbria Police's Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine has today honoured PC Jess Turnbull, who died yesterday, stating she made the "ultimate sacrifice" to keep her community safe.
The 19-year-old, who became a police officer last September, was reportedly hit by a black Mercedes CLC while responding to a collision on the A189 in Cramlington, Northumberland, on Monday night. The Mercedes had no connection to the initial crash.
Chief Constable Jardine today confirmed the force was grieving, as she paid tribute to Jess, who served as a response officer in Northumberland.
"It is with deep sadness that we share the tragic news that police officer Jess Turnbull has died in the line of duty," she said. "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."
In a mark of respect, the flag at Northumbria Police's headquarters in Wallsend was lowered to half mast today. A 73-year-old man, initially detained at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, was taken to hospital before being discharged. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released on bail.
Jess had responded to reports of a collision between a Land Rover Freelander and a Ford Explorer at around 11:10 pm on Monday, when she was allegedly struck while outside a marked police car. The road remained closed for more than 16 hours in the aftermath of 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 may be placed at the flagpole situated outside the force's headquarters on Middle Engine Lane.
Susan Dungworth, Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner, remarked: "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. Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police quoting reference number: NP-20260608-1198.
