Biker sought as witness to fatal crash

A biker could be a key witness to a crash which killed a pensioner, police have said.

Officers investigating the fatal collision in South Tyneside are hoping to trace a biker who rode past 88-year-old James Andersen Semmence shortly before he was hit by a car.

The collision happened on Victoria Road West in Hebburn at around 2.15pm on Thursday, November 16.

James, known as Jimmy, was taken to Royal Victoria Infirmary major trauma unit in Newcastle after being hit by the car, but died shortly afterwards.

Witnesses to the crash have now been asked to come forward and officers are keen to trace a motorcyclist who drove past Jimmy.

Officers have released an image of the motorbike and rider and, although the image is not good quality, police hope it may jog someone’s memory.

It’s thought the rider was wearing a high visibility jacket.

Northumbria Police said the ‘very shaken’ driver of the red Ford Fiesta involved in the collision had spoken to officers.

Motor patrols sergeant, Alan Keenleyside, said: “The rider is very much a witness and we don’t think the rider was involved in the collision in any way but we are keen to speak to them as they may be able to help with our inquiries.”

The motorbike rider, or anyone who has information is asked to call 101 quoting 613 161117.