We have had our World turned upside down

Published 23rd Apr 2015

Police have now named the man who died in the collision on the A1 in the early hours of Sunday, April 19th He was Ryan Mark Charlton, aged 23, from the Low Fell area of Gateshead. Ryan was known as "Curly" to his friends. His family have released the following statement:

"Ryan was a funny, happy boy. He was always making people laugh with his silly faces and voices. He was loved and treasured so much by his family and friends. We have had our world turned upside down and our hearts ripped out. His passing has left a huge hole in our lives and life will never be the same again for us. We would like to thank everybody for their support and beautiful cards and floral tributes we have received at this time. We would also like to thank Northumbria Police, with special thanks to PCs Gary Morris and Steve Ford for all their help and support in which is a desperately sad time for us. Most of all we would like to send our thanks and love to Ryan's friends who I know he loved very much and have been absolutely amazing for him."

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses into the collision and are asking anyone who was on the A1 in the Dunston area in the early hours of Sunday morning to get in contact. A 31-year-old man arrested in connection with the collision has been released on police bail. Any witnesses should contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 quoting reference 238 190415.