Police have named a motorcyclist who tragically died when he crashed into a pedestrian island earlier this month as they confirm one man has been arrested in connection with the incident.

Graeme Berry, aged 37, from Sunderland, was travelling along South Hetton Road in Hetton le Hole on April 19 when – for reasons yet to be established – he lost control and collided with a pedestrian island.

Emergency services rushed to the scene just after 8pm but despite the efforts of paramedics, Graeme was sadly pronounced deceased a short time later. 

The Northern Echo: Police at the scene in Hetton at the time of the crash.Police at the scene in Hetton at the time of the crash. (Image: Terry Blackburn)

As part of the investigation, one man in his 40s of a second vehicle has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He has since been released on bail.

Police are now appealing for witnesses and dash cam footage in relation to the incident.

Sergeant John Sanderson, of Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “As ever, our thoughts remain with Graeme’s family who have had to come to terms with the tragic loss of their loved one.

“We will continue to conduct a thorough investigation and find answers for the questions they will undoubtedly have.”

Sgt Sanderson added: “As part of that investigation, we’re looking for the public’s help to establish what happened in the moments leading up to the collision.

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“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have any CCTV or dashcam footage of South Hetton Road around 8pm that evening, or from anyone who was in the area at the time.

“Any information you can provide could help us – no matter how small.”

Anyone with information should use the ‘Report’ page on the Northumbria Police website or call 101, quoting reference number NP-20240419-1040.