An elderly woman has died following a six-vehicle collision in the region this morning.

Emergency services were called just after 9am today (Thursday) to the A69 near the roundabout with the A68 in Styford.

A red Toyota Yaris is believed to have been stationary in a layby on the eastbound carriageway when – for reasons yet to be established – a red BMW 420D has collided with the vehicle.

The female passenger of the Toyota – aged 81 – had suffered life-threatening injuries and sadly passed away at the scene.

The woman’s next of kin has been informed and they are currently being supported by officers at this difficult time.

The road was closed in both directions for a number of hours, however, the westbound carriageway reopened just after 3.30pm.

The eastbound carriageway remains closed at this time.

An investigation was launched by the Force’s Motor Patrols team to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision – and officers are appealing to the public for information.

Officers have already spoken with a number of witnesses, however they are now asking anyone else who is yet to come forward to get in touch.

They are especially interested in hearing from anyone who was travelling in the area at the time and may have dashcam or CCTV footage.

Inspector Matt Hough, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a tragic incident which has sadly resulted in a woman losing her life.

“Our thoughts go out to her family and loved ones at this devastating time, and we will continue to support them in whatever way we can.

Recommended reading:

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device with a subscription to The Northern Echo. Click here 

“An investigation has been launched, and we are committed to establish the full circumstances leading up to the collision.

“We are especially keen to hear from any passing motorists or witnesses who might have seen what happened, or have any CCTV or dashcam footage which shows the area of this collision.

“Any information, however small, could prove key as part of our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website, or call 101, quoting log number NP-20231130-0204.