A fatal hit-and-run on Burdon Road, near Lidcombe Close, has claimed the life of an 80-year-old woman. The incident occurred just before 1pm on Friday, 16 May, and has prompted a major witness appeal by Northumbria Police.

What Happened on Burdon Road

At around 12:45pm, the victim was crossing Burdon Road when she was struck by a black Sur-Ron electric motorcycle travelling northbound. The rider failed to stop and fled the scene, leaving the woman fatally injured. Despite the efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police later recovered the vehicle and arrested an 18-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released on bail as further enquiries continue.

Investigation and Appeal for Witnesses

Northumbria Police are urgently seeking witnesses, CCTV, or dashcam footage that could help reconstruct the moments leading up to the crash. Officers are particularly interested in recordings from 12:30pm to 1:00pm on Friday, 16 May, in the Burdon Road and Lidcombe Close areas.

"This was a tragic and completely avoidable incident. We are asking anyone who may have seen the Sur-Ron motorcycle, or who has any footage or knowledge of what happened, to come forward immediately," a spokesperson for Northumbria Police said.

Why This Case Matters

According to RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents), 1 in 5 UK road fatalities involves a hit-and-run driver. These cases are especially traumatic for families, who are often left without answers or justice.

With Burdon Road being a heavily trafficked area, police believe there is a strong chance that witnesses or camera footage may hold key evidence.

How You Can Help

If you have any information, however minor it may seem, you are urged to assist the ongoing witness appeal by:

• Calling 101 and quoting reference NP-20250516-0472
• Using the live chat tool on the Northumbria Police website
• Sending a direct message to @northumbriapol on X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook
• Sharing dashcam/CCTV footage from the area between 12:30pm and 1:00pm

Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Road Safety in Focus

This incident forms part of growing concerns over the safety of vulnerable road users in Tyne and Wear, especially with the increasing use of electric motorcycles on public roads. Calls are intensifying for improved speed restrictions, traffic enforcement, and pedestrian crossings in key urban areas.

In Memory

Northumbria Police say that the victim’s family is being supported by specially trained officers, and further tributes may be released in due course.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the family at this incredibly difficult time," the police added.

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