A devastating crash involving multiple police vehicles and a civilian car has forced the closure of a major section of the A1 near Newcastle, with five people hospitalised.
The collision happened just before 2:30 AM BST on Wednesday near junction 75 at Denton Burn. The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) confirmed that five people were taken to hospital, while several others were treated at the scene.
Drone and ground-level photos show a chaotic crash site with four damaged police vehicles—including one with its roof completely torn off—and a black 4×4 flipped on its side near the central reservation. Debris is strewn across both northbound and southbound lanes.
“It Was Absolute Carnage”
Residents nearby described being awoken by helicopters overhead and said they were shocked by the extent of the wreckage.
“You could hear a helicopter through the night. I knew something big had happened,” said one witness.
“I’m in shock, disbelief. I just hope everyone’s OK,” another local resident added.
Emergency response included:
- Five ambulance crews
- Two Hazardous Area Response Teams
- Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue crews from five stations
- Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS)
A1 Closure Causes Travel Chaos
National Highways says the A1 is shut between Swalwell (Gateshead) and Denton (Newcastle) in both directions and may remain closed into the afternoon hours as cleanup continues.
Rush hour traffic has been heavily affected, with:
- 30–40 minute delays over the Redheugh Bridge
- Long queues through the Tyne Tunnel
- Widespread congestion reported across Newcastle and the wider North East
A police detection dog was also seen investigating one of the vehicles, a black BMW wedged between police cars, raising questions about the cause of the incident.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved or the cause of the crash. However, a senior official confirmed that a full investigation is ongoing and that updates will follow as more details are verified.
Drivers are advised to avoid the area and check with National Highways or local traffic reports for alternative routes.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
