Appeal for taxi driver who may have seen the van involved in collision which killed 5-year-old boy

Image credit: Northumbria Police

Officers are appealing for witnesses after a five-year-old boy died following a collision in Newcastle.

At 4.50pm yesterday (Monday) police received a report of a collision involving a Ford Transit van and a child on Willow Avenue, Fenham.

Emergency services attended and the boy was taken to hospital but sadly died.

A 38-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in police custody at this time.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the collision are ongoing. Police are now appealing for any witnesses to the collision to get in touch.

The white van was towing a trailer with a digger on it at the time of the collision.

Sergeant Raymond Lowery, of Northumbria Police’s Motor Patrols Department, said: “This collision has devastatingly resulted in the death of a five-year-old child.

“Our thoughts are with the young boy’s family at this incredibly difficult time and they will continue to be supported by our specialist officers.

“This is clearly a tragic time for them and I would ask that their privacy be respected.”

He added: “An investigation has been launched and we are committed to establishing the circumstances surrounding this incident.

“I am now appealing to any road users who were travelling in the area around that time to come forward with any information or dashcam footage.

“From CCTV, we understand a taxi was in the area at the time and the driver may have seen the van prior to the collision so we are particularly keen for them to get in touch.

“Also any witnesses from nearby homes or businesses, or those passing on foot, are urged to come forward.

“It may prove crucial in allowing us to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 748 240820 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.