PC Jess Turnbull, a 19-year-old police officer with Northumbria Police, died after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to close a road following a traffic collision. The incident occurred on the A189 near Cramlington late on the night of June 8.

According to Coroner Andrew Hetherington, PC Turnbull and a colleague were dispatched at 11:11 p.m. to respond to a two-vehicle crash. Around 11:34 p.m., PC Turnbull exited the marked police vehicle and was engaged in establishing a road closure when another motorist collided with the stationary police car. The impact caused PC Turnbull to be hit and sustain what the coroner described as “catastrophic injuries.” Emergency services treated her at the scene before she was transported to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where she died on June 10.

A post-mortem examination has been completed, with police investigations ongoing. The full inquest has been adjourned until January 11. Northumbria Police said a 73-year-old driver of a Mercedes was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has since been released on bail.

PC Turnbull, who had joined the police force in September 2025, was following in the footsteps of her father, Andy, a former police officer. Her parents, Janice and Andy, attended the initial inquest hearing, which was brief. In a tribute issued after her passing, they highlighted her dedication to the profession, noting that policing was not just a job for her but a calling. They said she took great pride in serving the community and approached her duties with enthusiasm, compassion, and professionalism.

The circumstances of the collision remain under investigation as officials seek to establish the precise sequence of events leading to the tragic death of the young officer.