Cleveland Police have arrested five additional individuals as part of their investigation into a crash on the A66 that claimed the lives of seven people, including two officers. The latest arrests bring the total number of people detained in connection with the incident to 17.
The five individuals arrested on Tuesday include a 16-year-old boy, and four men aged 18, 21, 23, and 25. The 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of participating in an organized crime group. The 18-year-old and 21-year-old men were also arrested on suspicion of participating in an organized crime group. A 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, and a 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of threats to kill.
These arrests follow 12 detentions confirmed on Monday. Among those previously arrested, a 19-year-old man from Redcar has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court on Tuesday. Additionally, a 26-year-old man from Redcar was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs, and possession of criminal property. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Teesside Crown Court on September 21.
The fatal crash occurred on the A66 in South Bank, near Middlesbrough, on Saturday. Police were present at the scene following the incident.