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Traffic accidents

Two Elderly Residents Die After Stolen BMW Crashes Into Care Home

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Two elderly residents at Highcliffe Care Home in Sunderland have tragically passed away after a stolen BMW, being pursued by police, crashed into the care home. The collision occurred at around 9.40pm on Wednesday, causing structural damage to the building. Eight other residents were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, but only one remained in hospital on Friday. The incident has led to a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Key Takeaways:

  • Two 21-year-olds, originally arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and one also on suspicion of dangerous driving, were re-arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the deaths of the two elderly residents.
  • The BMW was stolen from an address in Fenham, Newcastle, at around 9.20pm on Wednesday, and police were authorized to pursue the vehicle, which crashed into the care home approximately five minutes later.
  • Eight other residents were taken to the hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening, with only one still hospitalized on Friday.
  • The care home was evacuated, and residents were temporarily relocated to alternative accommodations.
  • Northumbria Police has referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to its serious nature.
  • The families of the deceased residents are being supported by specially-trained officers, and the investigation will consider whether the collision contributed to their deaths.
  • Avery Healthcare, the provider of the care home, praised the professionalism and dedication of their staff who helped ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care for the residents.

Statistics:

  • Two elderly residents (a woman in her 90s and a woman in her 80s) died as a result of the collision.
  • Eight other residents were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, with one still hospitalized on Friday.
  • The collision occurred at approximately 9.40 pm on Wednesday.
  • The BMW was stolen at 9.20pm on Wednesday.
  • The incident has led to a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
  • Two 21-year-olds were re-arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Sources:

  • Northumbria Police
  • Avery Healthcare
  • PA Wire

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