South Shields bus crash: Police confirm woman has died after bus crash

Northumbria Police officers and paramedics were called to Chichester Road in the town just before 9am today, Saturday, August 29, following a report of a crash.

Police have now confirmed the 51-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, which happened close to the junction with Imeary Street, close to the IMO car wash and KFC.

Her next of kin have been notified and are being supported by specialist family liaison officers at this time.

Roads in the area have been closed off by traffic officers and area expected to be in place for several hours, with any witnesses urged to come forward as the investigation gets underway into the tragedy.

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.”

A spokesperson for the North East Ambulance Service said: “We were called at 8.55am today to a report of a road traffic collision on Chichester Road.

"We sent a double crewed ambulance and a rapid response paramedic to the scene.”

Stagecoach North East has confirmed one of its vehicles was involved in the collision.

A spokesperson for the company said: “We are co-operating with the police and helping with their investigation.

"Our thoughts are with the woman’s family.”

Go North East, which also runs services in the area, has said the incident is ongoing in the area of Chichester and Imeary Street, with its services rerouted due to the road closures.

It has said it is unable to service bus stops at Chichester, Dean Road and Imeary Street, with passengers asked to head to Laygate.

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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