Two women killed after stolen BMW crashes into care home in Sunderland

Two elderly women have died after a care smashed into their care home while being chased by police.

The blue BMW punched a hole in the front of Highcliffe Care Home in Witherwack, Northumbria, at around 9.40pm on Wednesday.

Two men, both aged 21, were arrested over the crash, which has left the building with structural damage and eight residents needing hospital treatment.

In an update today, they confirmed two others – a woman in her 80s and another in her 90s –  have died following the crash.

The two men have been re-arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Both were originally arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, while one was also arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving. They remain in custody.

On Friday morning, Northumbria Police said: ‘Sadly, two care home residents – a woman in her 90s and a woman in her 80s – passed away yesterday.

‘The next of kin for both women have been notified and are being supported by specially-trained officers.

‘Following this sad update, the investigation will now also consider whether the collision contributed to their deaths.’

Chief Superintendent Mark Hall from Northumbria Police, said yesterday: ‘We’re working closely with our blue-light partners, as well as the local authority and NHS colleagues, to support those involved.

‘I’d like to thank them for their assistance in ensuring the safety of all residents and staff.

‘Our officers remain in the area with other agencies to carry out enquiries and offer reassurance to the public.

Debris and furniture has been left scattered in the building and on the grounds (Picture: ncjMedia Ltd)

‘I’d ask anyone with concerns to speak to an officer on duty.’

A Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: ‘We can confirm that seven appliances attended a one vehicle road traffic collision last night in Sunderland.

‘The emergency call was received by our Control Room team at 21.41 resulting in crews being dispatched to the scene on Whitchurch Road from Hebburn Tri Station, Marley Park, Sunderland Central, and South Shields Community Fire Stations.

‘Firefighters assisted other blue light colleagues throughout the incident including Northumbria Police and North East Ambulance Service.  Crews left the scene at 23.46.’