A teenage police officer has tragically died after being struck by a vehicle while attending another collision. Pc Jess Turnbull, aged 19, who joined Northumbria Police in September, was described as a dedicated and committed officer by her chief constable.
She was called to a collision on the A189 near Cramlington, Northumberland, at approximately 11:10 PM on Monday. While outside her marked police car at the scene, she was hit by a black Mercedes CLC that was not involved in the original incident.
The young officer passed away in hospital on Wednesday, surrounded by her loved ones, the force confirmed.
Arrest and Investigation
A 73-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He was released after being taken to hospital but has been re-arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has now been bailed pending further inquiries.
Chief Constable's Tribute
Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine paid tribute to Pc Turnbull, stating: 'This is an extremely tragic incident where Jess lost her life in the line of duty while serving and protecting our communities. Our thoughts very much continue to be with her family, friends and all those who have been impacted by this devastating loss.'
She added: '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.'
The Union flag at Northumbria Police headquarters in North Tyneside is flying at half-mast in her honour. Police have urged the public not to leave floral tributes at the crash scene for safety reasons.
Pc Turnbull is believed to be the first Northumbria Police officer killed on duty since 2006, when Pc Joseph Carroll died in a collision caused by a prisoner pulling the handbrake on his car.
