A MAN was found dead in a taxi this morning after the vehicle collided with a tree.
Police are appealing for witnesses after the accident off Stockton Road westbound near to Newton Bewley in Hartlepool.
"A man in the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene after officers discovered the taxi at around 2am," a police spokesman said. "The road was closed and diversions put in place, it was re-opened at around 6am.
"An investigation is underway and a post mortem is due to take place today. Anyone who has any information is asked to contact the Roads Policing Unit on 01642-326326 quoting reference U192499."
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