A police officer was injured and six boys were arrested following an incident in Sunderland on Tuesday morning. The officer, serving with Durham Constabulary, was carrying out enquiries after a report of a stolen vehicle in the area.

At approximately 6:45 a.m., Northumbria Police received a call regarding a suspected burglary at a residence in the Burdon area of Sunderland. According to the report, a vehicle had been taken from the property and was then driven around the local area before entering Durham Constabulary’s jurisdiction.

Just after 8:30 a.m., officers from Durham Constabulary spotted the suspected stolen vehicle parked on Cooperative Terrace in Sunderland. As an officer approached the car on foot in an attempt to secure the vehicle and detain its occupants, the vehicle suddenly drove off. It subsequently collided with an unrelated stationary vehicle, resulting in injury to the Durham officer, who was taken to hospital for treatment but has since been discharged.

A significant emergency response followed the collision, with officers from both Durham Constabulary and Northumbria Police attending the scene near Chester Road and Cooperative Terrace. Additional resources, including a police dog unit and forensic teams, joined the response alongside other emergency services.

Six boys, aged between 13 and 17, were arrested in connection with the incident and remained in police custody as of Tuesday afternoon. Investigations are ongoing to identify and locate any further individuals involved.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney of Northumbria Police expressed sympathy for the injured officer, stating that police officers attend work with the intention of helping the public and not being harmed in the line of duty. She wished the officer a swift recovery and acknowledged the support provided by him and his colleagues during the response.

Assistant Chief Constable Richie Allen of Durham Constabulary noted the close cooperation between the two forces as the investigation progresses.

Authorities have appealed for anyone with information related to the incident to contact Northumbria Police, referencing case number 26000422478. The road in the area was closed temporarily while officers conducted their investigations.