The heartbroken family of a young man who died after being hit by a car over the weekend have released a photograph of their beloved son.

In the early hours of Saturday (June 10) morning police were called to reports of a crash involving a car and pedestrian on the Great North Road in Jesmond.

It was reported that a silver Peugot 308 had been travelling northbound, near the junction with Forsyth Road, when it hit 20-year-old student Liam O’Connor.

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Mr O’Connor, of Manchester, suffered life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital where he later passed away.

His heartbroken family have today released his photograph.

An investigation has been launched and the road was closed for several hours while officers worked at the scene.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact police to assist with their enquiries.

Sergeant Steven Chappell, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a truly devastating outcome, and our thoughts remain with Liam’s family and loved ones at this very sad time. We would ask that their privacy is respected as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened.

“We are committed to getting answers for his family and finding out the full circumstances surrounding this collision, which has tragically resulted in his death.

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“Today, I am again asking for the public’s help. While this happened in the early hours, the road is well-used and in a busy location, and we understand there were a number of other vehicles in the area.

“Anybody who believes they witnessed this collision, or who saw either Liam or the silver Peugeot 308 prior to or after the incident, should get in touch with police if they have not already done so.

“We still want to hear from anybody who may have CCTV or dashcam footage which may be of interest to our investigation – so please do check your footage as soon as possible and contact us.

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“Your information, no matter how small it might seem, could prove significant during our enquiries.

“I would also like to thank our blue-light partners who assisted at the scene, as well as everyone who has already come forward with information to assist our investigation. Your support is does not go unnoticed.”

A force spokesperson added: “Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website, or call 101, quoting log number NP-20230610-0103.”