At around 2.55am today, police spotted a vehicle of interest travelling on the A184 in the Felling area of Gateshead.

The vehicle – a white BMW M135 – reportedly failed to stop when instructed by police and a chase was authorised.

A short time later, the BMW was sighted travelling south on the northbound carriageway of the A19 in Sunderland.

At around 3am, the BMW collided with a grey Volkswagen Sharan travelling north on the same carriageway.

Emergency services attended where sadly a female passenger from the BMW was confirmed dead at the scene. 

The family of the woman – aged in her 20’s – have been informed and are being offered support by specially trained officers.

A male passenger – aged in his 20’s – was taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries and remains there in a life-threatening condition.

The male driver of the Sharan was taken to hospital for treatment of injuries which are not deemed to be serious.

The driver of the BMW – a 24-year-old man – was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in police custody at this time.

The A19 was closed in both directions between the junctions of the A1231 at Hylton Grange and the A184 Testos roundabout for several hours but has since re-opened to traffic. 

Northumbria Police has referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), who have confirmed they will be conducting an independent investigation.

Sergeant Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police’s serious collision investigation unit, said: “Firstly, our thoughts go out to the woman’s loved ones as they process this tragic news, and also to the families of those injured.

“A section of the A19 was closed as our officers and the IOPC carried out enquiries at the scene, but the road has since been re-opened to traffic.

“We’d like to thank the public for their patience today while this was ongoing and would ask people to please refrain from any speculation online and in the community in the meantime.”

Anyone with information or footage can send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use live chat and report forms on the force’s website.

Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20260301-0122