A WOMAN is critically ill in hospital after being struck by a police car on a pelican crossing.
An investigation has been launched into the accident, which left the woman with serious injuries yesterday afternoon.
The Police Complaints Authority (PCA) is to supervise the investigation into the incident, which happened in Newcastle.
The woman, whose name has not been released, was walking on a pelican crossing on Wellbeck Road, shortly after 1pm.
She was involved in a collision with the Northumbria Police vehicle, which was responding to a high-priority call.
The woman, in her early 50s, was taken to Newcastle General Hospital.
She received treatment and her condition was described as critical last night.
The police officer driving the car was also taken to Newcastle General suffering from shock.
Northumbria Police voluntarily referred the incident to the Police Complaints Authority.
The investigation is being carried out by Superintendent Mick Hassen, under the supervision of PCA member Ann Barker.
Mrs Barker said: "I will ensure that a full and fair investigation is carried out into this tragic incident and would like to join the police appeal for witnesses."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 0191-214 6555.
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