Full Breakdown
Funeral of PC Matthew Blades Highlights Community Support After Fatal A66 Crash
9/9/2026, 3:43:06 PM
Core Event – Fatal Collision and Losses
On August 22, a Volkswagen Passat travelling the wrong way on the A66 at South Bank, near Middlesbrough, collided head-on with a marked armed-response police vehicle. The crash killed PC Matthew Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38, along with five young men: Cole Worthy, 17; Theo Rae, 17; Makai Saddington, 18; Michael Cahill, 23; and Jakub Matusiak, 23.
Background & Context – Pursuit and Investigation
The Passat had been pursued by Cleveland Police after its cloned registration plates triggered an automated number-plate-recognition alert. Officers were searching for the vehicle when the pursuit was abandoned 10 seconds before the crash, according to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The two officers were not directly involved in the pursuit at the moment of impact.
Data & Statistics
- Total fatalities: 7 (2 police officers, 5 civilians).
- Ages of civilian victims: 17–23.
- Fundraising: More than £1.2 million raised for the families of the two officers.
- Road closures for PC Blades’ funeral: Hartlepool streets from 07:30 BST.
- Schools closing early: Four schools adjusted schedules on September 7 to accommodate funeral traffic.
- Streets listed for possible disruption: Ladgate Lane, Ormesby Road, Cargo Fleet Lane, Acklam Road.
Official Statements & Responses
Cleveland Police Federation chairwoman Lauren Somerville said the outpouring of support from abroad and local communities had been “overwhelming” and “comforting.” She noted that flowers, messages on social media, and simple acknowledgements such as nods to officers on patrol had given “so much strength” to colleagues.
Superintendent John Wrintmore confirmed coordination with local highways departments to minimise traffic impact during the funeral cortege and emphasized that police presence would be visible to ensure public safety.
Verbatim Quotes
- “People have been in touch from Australia, France, America – the support has been overwhelming, and it’s been comforting.” — Ms Somerville, police federation chair
- “He’s been described as bringing light and laughter into every room and now life feels unbearably quiet without him.” — Ms Somerville, police federation chair
- “His family have said they’re going to miss everything about him more than words can say and his laughter and silly jokes made them smile even when they least expected it.” — PC Blades. Ms Somerville, police federation chair
- “This decision has been reached after careful consideration of the potential impact on pupils, staff and families travelling to and from the school.” — Outwood Academy Acklam
On-the-Ground Reports – Community and School Actions
Hundreds gathered for the funeral of Jakub Matusiak on September 4, reflecting the broader community grief. Ahead of PC Blades’ funeral, four schools—Acklam Whin Primary, Green Lane School (Acklam), Outwood Academy Acklam, and Newham Bridge Primary—announced early closures to allow families and staff safe travel. Local residents were advised that the funeral cortege would travel around Middlesbrough before proceeding to St Bede’s Chapel at Teesside Crematorium.
What’s Next – Upcoming Funeral Arrangements
PC Matthew Blades’ funeral is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9 in Hartlepool. Road closures will be in place to accommodate the ceremonial procession, and police have outlined traffic-management plans for the affected streets. The community continues to organise tributes and support for the families of all seven victims.
