politics
Cars set on fire at balloon release memorial for man who died in A66 crash
Police are dealing with a number of incidents across Teesside tonight as violence and crime escalates in the area linked to criminal gangs.
TL;DR
- A suspected gangland turf war has gripped Teesside, following nine deaths in five days, including two police officers in an A66 crash.
- A memorial event for Michael Robert Cahill, 23, who died in the A66 crash, saw cars set on fire and balloons released.
- Over 200 extra police officers have been deployed to support Cleveland Police amid rising violence.
- Residents are reporting incidents such as a vehicle crashing into a wall and a stabbing, with one describing the area as "brutal".
- Local MPs have condemned the violence, with one calling it "terrorism" and emphasizing residents' right to feel safe.