Multiple people killed in UK police vehicle crash

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The force said the collision had resulted in multiple fatalities, but the exact number of people killed had not been released as of Saturday morning. Officers were working to identify the victims and notify their families.

Several people have died following a serious collision involving a police vehicle and a Volkswagen Passat in northeast England.

The crash occurred at about 3.39am on Saturday on the A66 at South Bank, near Middlesbrough in Teesside, according to Cleveland Police.

The force said the collision had resulted in multiple fatalities, but the exact number of people killed had not been released as of Saturday morning. Officers were working to identify the victims and notify their families.

A major emergency operation was launched after the crash. The North East Ambulance Service said it sent 14 emergency resources, including ambulance crews, a specialist paramedic, a hazardous area response team and a doctor from the Great North Air Ambulance Service. Several patients were pronounced dead at the scene.

The A66 has been closed in both directions between Normanby Road and Church Lane, with motorists advised to use alternative routes. The road is expected to remain shut for some time as emergency services and investigators work at the scene.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. The watchdog said the incident followed a police pursuit after officers reportedly spotted a suspicious vehicle.

Cleveland Police urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues and the families of those who died are contacted.