Man dies after being struck by ambulance carrying patient as police launch probe

Police were called to reports that a pedestrian had been hit by the emergency vehicle, which was carrying a patient at the time.

The ambulance did not have its blue lights activated when the incident took place, according to Northumbria Police.

Despite the efforts of paramedics at the scene, the man was pronounced dead.

His next-of-kin have been notified.

No one travelling in the ambulance was injured in the collision.

The driver, a man in his 40s, is cooperating with officers as part of their enquiries.

The patient was moved to a second ambulance and then taken to hospital.

A North East Ambulance Service spokesman said: “This is a hugely tragic incident for all involved. Our thoughts and condolences are with the patient’s loved ones.”

The road was closed in both directions for several hours following the incident but has since been reopened.

Sergeant Ben Rutherford of Northumbria Police said: “Our thoughts are firmly with the family and loved ones of the man who has tragically died following this collision.

“We will continue to support them in any way that we can at this incredibly difficult time.”

Northumbria Police’s Roads Policing Unit has opened a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.

Sergeant Rutherford urged members of the public to come forward with any relevant information.

He said: “We have already conducted a number of enquiries as part of our investigation, and are keen for anyone with information to come forward.”

He added: “We are particularly keen to hear from those who may have seen or have footage of the events leading up to the collision.

Anyone with dashcam footage or information is asked to contact the force via live chat or through the Northumbria Police website.