Teen in Critical Condition After Tractor Crash in County Durham
A 14-year-old boy is fighting for his life after a tractor flipped on a farm near the B6310 in Burnopfield, County Durham. Another youngster, aged 13, was also seriously hurt and is receiving treatment in hospital.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene shortly after 8:20pm on 21 December. Both boys were rushed to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, where they remain in critical care.
Police Car Targeted with Tyre Slashings at Crash Site
In a shocking twist, police attending the crash faced vandalism at the scene – all four tyres of a parked police car were slashed, putting the vehicle and officers out of action for the night.
Inspector Mick Todd condemned the sabotage as “shocking and unacceptable,” saying it drained already limited police resources during one of the busiest times of the year.
“These officers were first on the scene and gave lifesaving first aid to the teenagers,” Inspector Todd said. “Despite the trauma, their professionalism shone through. The criminal damage delayed our investigation.”
Durham Police Launch Double Investigation and Seek Witnesses
Police are urgently probing both the tractor accident and the police car vandalism. They are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or suspicious activity in Burnopfield on 21 December to come forward immediately.
- Email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at [email protected]
- Call 101 and quote incident number 401 of December 21
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
Heavy Emergency Response at Tractor Crash Scene
The North East Ambulance Service sent a major response, including three double-crewed ambulances, a Hazardous Area Response Team vehicle, a clinical team leader, and a specialist paramedic.
A spokesperson confirmed: “Two patients were taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary with serious and life-threatening injuries.”
This tragic accident has devastated the local community. Police and emergency teams are continuing urgent enquiries as the boys and their families endure this heartbreaking ordeal.
