South Shields bus crash: Inquiries continue into 'utterly tragic' fatal collision

The 51-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident in Chichester Road, South Shields, which occurred just before 9am on Saturday, August 29.

Her identity has still to be released by Northumbria Police although her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by family liaison officers.

Officers are still urging anyone who may witnessed the collision, which involved a Stagecoach North East bus, or who may have dashcam footage to contact them.

Flowers have also been placed near the scene of the accident, which took place close to the IMO car wash and KFC restaurant, with Gazette readers offering their sympathy to the dead woman and her loved ones on our Facebook page.

Jo-Anne Crow wrote: “Utterly tragic for all involved.”

Tracy Harrison added: “Thinking of the lady’s family and friends.”

Lesley Willis said: “This is awful to hear. Thinking of family and friends.”

Following the crash, Inspector Paul Allen, of Northumbria Police’s motor patrols department, said: “This was a serious collision that has sadly resulted in the death of a woman.

“Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and friends at this devastating time and we will continue to offer them any support they need.

"This is clearly a tragic time for them and I would ask that their privacy is respected as they attempt to come to terms with their loss.

“I am now appealing to those road users or pedestrians who were in the area of Chichester Road at around 9am to come forward with any information or dashcam footage.

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

Stagecoach North East confirmed on Saturday: “We are co-operating with the police and helping with their investigation. Our thoughts are with the woman’s family.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Northumbria Police 101, quoting reference 267 290820, or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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