Chichester Road crash victim named as Barry Armstrong

Shortly before 4.15am on Friday, officers were called to Chichester Road after a white Audi S3 had collided with a house.

Emergency services attended but sadly the male driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

He can now be identified as Barry Armstrong – also known as Barry Sutton – aged 25, of South Shields.

His family are being supported by a team of specialist family liaison officers at this difficult time.

Two other occupants of the car, a female passenger and a second male, received treatment in hospital after suffering serious injuries.

The woman remains in a critical but stable condition while the man is in a stable condition.

Sergeant Dave Roberts, of Northumbria Police’s motor patrols department, said: “This was a tragic incident that sadly claimed the life of a young man who had his whole future ahead of him.

“Our thoughts are with Barry’s family and friends as they come to terms with their loss, and we will continue to offer them any support they need.

“Our motivation is to find out what caused this collision and determine a chronology of events that immediately preceded the incident.

“A team of officers have been carrying out a number of enquiries over the weekend and will continue throughout this week.”

Police said that a 20-year-old man is due to appear in court after video of the crash scene was shared on social media in the immediate aftermath of the collision.

Officers are still appealing for information and Sgt Roberts said: “I would ask anybody who witnessed the collision itself, or who lives in the area and may have dashcam footage or CCTV that can assist the ongoing investigation, to come forward. Your information – however small or insignificant you feel it may be – could be crucial.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 85 24/01/20 or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.