Tributes have been paid to a “deeply loved” young woman who was killed in a head-on collision during a police pursuit.
Taylor Jenkins, 24, from Edinburgh, died when the white BMW car she was a passenger in struck a minivan near Sunderland in the early hours of Monday morning.
The car was heading south on the northbound carriageway of the A19 .
Northumbria Police said she died at the scene, whilst another passenger, in his 20s, is in hospital in a life-threatening condition.
A man has appeared in court in connection with the crash.
Ms Jenkins’ family paid tribute, saying: “Taylor was deeply loved and will be missed more than words can ever express.
“Her kindness, laughter, and beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and her memory will live on in all of us.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we ask for privacy and compassion as we grieve.
“We are grateful for the overwhelming support and kindness shown to our family.”
Sergeant Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts firmly remain with all of Taylor’s loved ones as they process their devastating loss.
“We would echo their plea and ask they’re given privacy as they come to terms with Taylor’s passing, and we will continue to offer them our support.
“Our investigation into the collision is very much ongoing, with a man now charged in connection with the incident.
“Given this, we would please ask the public to refrain from any speculation both in the community and online that could have a negative impact on legal proceedings at court.
“We thank the public for their continued support and would urge any further witnesses to get in touch.”
The driver of the VW Sharan minivan required hospital treatment but his injuries were not serious.
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Kane Farragher, 24, from Birkenhead, Merseyside, has appeared in court charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by driving whilst disqualified, and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, has launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
