An 18-year-old man has been arrested after a woman died in a suspected hit and run.

Officers were called to the B1286 Burdon Road, near the junction with Lidcombe Close in Sunderland shortly before 1pm on Friday 16 May after receiving reports of collision involving a pedestrian.

Northumbria Police say a woman had been crossing the road when she was struck by an electric motorcycle, thought to be a black Sur-Ron, travelling northbound. The rider had driven away from the area.

The woman, who was in her 80s, suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Sections of Burdon Road and Lidcombe Close were closed for around four hours to allow officers to carry out enquiries. The investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the collision are ongoing and police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

An 18-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released on bail, pending further enquiries.

The vehicle believed to be involved in the incident has been recovered.

Sergeant Andrew Ferguson, of Northumbria Police, said: “Firstly, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the woman’s loved ones following this devastating incident.

“We will continue to support them in any way that we can.

“A number of enquiries are underway as we try to establish exactly what has happened in the moments leading up to the collision.

“As part of this, we are keen to hear from any motorists who were driving in the area at the time, and any further witnesses, especially those with CCTV or dashcam footage.

“We know this is quite a busy stretch of road, with lots of people and vehicles in the area at the time, so please get in touch if you saw anything.

“There will be increased patrol activity in the area over the weekend, and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with an officer on duty.”

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media or by using live chat and report forms on the Force’s website.

Alternatively you can call 101, quoting reference number NP-20250516-0472.