Floral tributes and cards were mounting at the scene of a double fatal collision on the outskirts of a North East town today (Sunday March 12).
Police earlier confirmed two teenagers died at the crash scene, on a narrow grassy tree-lined roadside verge alongside a motor dealership, in Morpeth, Northumberland.
The tragedy was said to have taken place at about 12.40am this morning (Sunday, March 12) on the A196, near its junction with Coopies Way.
Police received reports of the incident and officers plus members of other emergency services attended the scene, on the southern fringes of the Northumberland commuter town.
Read more: Morpeth crash leaves two teenagers, aged 17 and 16, dead at the scene
But a spokesperson for the Northumbria force said: “Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics”, male teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were confirmed dead at the scene.
Police said both bereaved families are being supported by specialist officers.
An investigation was launched to determine the circumstances of the incident and police are appealing for information.
Officers hope any witnesses, especially anyone who might have dashcam footage, will now come forward to assist the inquiry.
Sergeant Craig Bartle, of Northumbria Police’s motor patrols department, said: “This is an incredibly tragic incident involving two young men who had their whole lives ahead of them.
“Our thoughts go out to both the young men’s families and close ones as they attempt to come to terms with today’s devastating news.
“We will support them in every way we can and ask that the families’ privacy is respected.
Read more: A1 blocked following serious crash near Morpeth, Northumberland
“An investigation has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the collision.
“We’re asking for anyone who has not yet spoken to us to get in touch, especially if you were travelling in the area and may have some information or dashcam footage that could help our inquiries.”
As news of the double fatality spread, floral wreaths, cards and other mementoes were placed at the scene, alongside a roadside tree, outside a branch of Bristol Street Motors.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police immediately by using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria force website, or by calling 101, quoting log NP-20230312-0045.
Read next:
Casualty airlifted to hospital after crash on A1 near Morpeth
A1 crash near Morpeth: Man in critical condition in hospital
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A North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) spokesperson said: "We received a call at 00:43 this morning from Northumbria Police following a serious road traffic incident on Coopies Lane in Morpeth.
“We sent two emergency ambulance crews, a specialist paramedic, a doctor from Great North Air Ambulance Service and a duty officer to the scene.
“Sadly, two patients passed away at the scene despite the efforts of those attending. Our thoughts go out to their loved ones at this devastating time.”
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