A major section of the A1 near Newcastle remains closed in both directions this morning after a serious multi-vehicle collision involving police vehicles in the early hours of the day. Five people have been taken to hospital, and a full investigation has been launched by Northumbria Police.

The incident occurred shortly before 2:30am on the northbound carriageway near the Derwent Haugh Road junction in Gateshead. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, with a significant presence throughout the night.

Road Closures and Delays

The affected stretch of road lies between Junction 73 (Blaydon/Consett turnoff) and Junction 75 (West Denton Roundabout). Authorities say the closure is expected to remain in place well into the afternoon as investigation and recovery work continues. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and follow diversion routes, with delays reported across the region.

Emergency Response

The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) confirmed a large-scale response.
A spokesperson said:
“We despatched five ambulance crews, a specialist paramedic, a duty officer, and two crews from our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART). We also requested support from the Great North Air Ambulance Service, who attended by road. Five patients were transported to hospital for further treatment.”

Details on the condition of those injured, including whether any were police officers, have not yet been confirmed.

Police Investigation Underway

Northumbria Police are leading the investigation and have described the incident as “serious.
A force spokesperson said:
“Shortly before 2:30am today (Wednesday) we received a report of a multi-vehicle collision on the A1 northbound near the Derwent Haugh Road junction, Gateshead. Emergency services are currently in attendance.”

Pictures from the scene circulating on social media show multiple police vehicles among the wreckage, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation.

National Highways has also acknowledged the severity of the crash, stating:
“Due to the serious nature of this incident, a full Northumbria Police investigation is underway, and this is expected to be protracted.

Developing Story

The situation remains fluid, and updates on the condition of those injured—particularly any involved officers—are expected throughout the day.

This incident has sparked renewed discussions about safety for emergency responders on the roads and has caused major disruption to one of the North East’s busiest motorway routes.