Teenager and toddler killed after collision in County Durham

Police can now confirm that a second person has tragically died following a serious collision on Wednesday the 2nd.

The 17-year-old woman sustained life-threatening injuries after the car she was travelling in collided with a van.

She was taken to hospital, but sadly died as a result of her injuries last night (September 3).

A three-year-old girl who was also in the car with the teenager passed away at hospital on Wednesday.

Their families have been informed and are currently being supported by specially trained officers.

The incident happened at about 2.30pm on the Coast Road, in Horden.

A blue Peugeot 206, which was travelling from Blackhall Colliery towards Horden, collided with a silver van that was travelling in the opposite direction.

The Peugeot driver and other occupants all sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment, where they remain.

The driver of the van was also taken to hospital with serious injuries. He has since been discharged.

Sergeant Pete Tate, from Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit, is leading the investigation.

He said: “This is a tragic incident for all involved and we would like to offer our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives.

“We are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the collision, and would like to speak to anyone who may have any information that could help our investigation.

“If you have dashcam footage of the vehicles prior to the collision and have not already spoken to us, then please get in touch with us.

“Likewise, if you saw the vehicles driving in the local area before the collision then please call us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 207 of September 2.