Thornaby: Suspected stolen Range Rover crashes into police

The drama unfolded when armed police converged on Hampden Way in Thornaby after the sighting of a "wanted man" who was reported to be with several other men in the Range Rover.

Three men were arrested following the collision in nearby Tedder Avenue. It is believed to be linked to an incident in Thornaby last week when eight men, armed with machetes, forced their way into the yard of Thornaby Motor Group and smashed up a number of cars.

A Cleveland Police spokesperson it was reported yesterday morning, that a wanted man and several other men were in a suspected stolen Range Rover.

Read more: Thornaby: Three arrests following damage to cars at garage

The spokesperson said: “Armed response officers attended the scene and shortly after, the Range Rover crashed into the police vehicle on Tedder Avenue in Thornaby.

“Two police officers were injured and taken to hospital for treatment for minor injuries.

Two men (aged 19 and 33), both passengers in the Range Rover, were arrested on Tedder Avenue in connection with the incident.

A third male, who was also wanted, reportedly made off from the scene of the crash and was detained by a police dog and arrested by officers shortly after. He remains in police custody.

The spokesperson added: “This incident is believed to be connected to an incident in Thornaby on August 11, when eight men, armed with machetes, attended the Thornaby Motor Group.

“The men smashed have smashed their way into the yard using two vehicles and smashed up a number of other cars, before making off in the vehicles they arrived in.

“Assisted by the police helicopter, one of the vehicles believed to be used by the suspects was located.

Read more: Thornaby: Men driving 4x4s damage windows and cars

“Officers attended the location of the vehicle and arrested three males, two aged 17 and one aged 19. All three have been bailed from custody with conditions whilst enquiries continue.

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“It is believed other suspects made off from the scene. Officers conducted searches but did not locate the suspects.

Enquiries into both incidents are ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101 quoting 162772 and 158296 Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously by phoning 0800 555 111.