The heartbroken family of a 15-year-old boy who was killed in a crash after a police chase have paid tribute.
Conner Loder died when the car he was travelling in as a passenger was involved in a smash in Newcastle in the early hours of Monday morning.
No other vehicles were involved in the collision in Stamfordham Road, West Denton.
Another boy, aged 16, was taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life threatening.
He and two other boys, aged 14 and 15, were all arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Conner’s family said in a heartfelt statement today: ‘We can’t find the words to explain how devastated we all are. Conner was such a kind and loving person. He had time for everyone.
‘He loved spending time with his friends, family and girlfriend Leah. He would have done anything for any one of them.’
Known to his loved ones as ‘Loder’, Conner had a passion for computer games and loved spending time outdoors.
The teenager’s family added: ‘We’re a big family and we often spend a lot of time together outdoors – camping and going on long walks. This would be when Conner was at his happiest.
‘It was a joy to watch him with his younger brother and sisters. He was very playful – and so funny!
‘Such a big part has been taken from us. We’ve never experienced pain like it as a family. We miss him every single day.’
An investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident that resulted in Conner’s death.
Inspector Dean Hood, of Northumbria Police’s roads policing unit, said: ‘Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Conner at this extremely difficult time.
‘We are continuing to do everything we can to better understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
‘We urge anyone who has information that may assist our investigations to come forward.’
Earlier this week, a 17-year-old boy was killed in a hit-and-run motorbike crash.
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