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Six people have been arrested after a 15-year-old boy died and another boy, aged 16, was injured in a crash.

The crash happened on Stamfordham Road, Newcastle, at about 01:15 BST on Monday after a short police pursuit.

Five boys, aged 14, 15 and three aged 16, have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. A 27-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

All six have been bailed.

Northumbria Police said officers were following a Mazda at a distance after it had raised suspicions and made off.

The police car had lost sight of the Mazda, but it was found moments later to have hit a road sign.

No other vehicles were involved and the incident has been referred to the Independent Office of Police Conduct.

The 16-year-old boy who was injured remains in hospital and his injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

Insp Dean Hood, of Northumbria Police, asked people with information to come forward.

"This is a tragic incident where a young person has sadly lost their life," he said.

“Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this extremely difficult time, and they are currently being supported by our specially-trained officers."

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