Family of schoolgirl, 10, killed in suspected hit-and-run left 'devastated'
27 September 2019, 12:37
A schoolgirl killed in a suspected hit-and-run incident in Newcastle has been named by police as Melissa Tate.
The 10-year-old was hit by a Renault Kangoo on Hillsview Avenue in Kenton on Wednesday evening.
She was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but died the following afternoon.
Today Connor Marsden, 23, of Ambridge Way in Kenton, has been with causing death by dangerous driving, failure to stop and a number of other driving-related offences.
Northumbria Police Chief Inspector Chris Grice said Melissa's family were "devastated", and asked for privacy while they grieve.
"This is understandably a difficult time for the family and it is something that nobody should have to go through," he said.
"Specialist officers have been supporting them since Melissa was involved in the collision on Wednesday night and they continue to do so.
He added: "This incident has had a big impact on the community in Kenton and I know that residents will come together to support Melissa's family."
Another 23-year-old man has been arrested and released under investigation.
Two women - aged 31 and 28 - were also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, and have since been released under investigation.
Police are continuing an investigation to establish the details around the incident and are calling for any witnesses to come forward.
You can report information by calling 101 and quoting log 923 25/09/19 or reporting it online at the Northumbria Police website.
You can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.
