Officer killed in wrong-way A66 crash was ‘superhero’ and ‘most devoted father’
Two police officers, Pc Matthew Blades and Pc Tom Clough, were killed in a collision on the A66 after a vehicle being pursued by police drove the wrong way. The families of the officers have paid tribute to their service and character.
Why it matters
This tragic event highlights the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
The wife of one of the two police officers killed when a car driving the wrong way on the A66 dual carriageway crashed into their police vehicle has said he was a "superhero" and "the most devoted father to our two young boys".
Pc Matthew Blades , 37, died alongside Pc Tom Clough , 38, when a Volkswagen Passat, that had been pursued by police, hit the marked armed response vehicle in Teesside early on Saturday.
Five males aged between 17 and 23 who were travelling in the Volkswagen were also killed.
Pc Blades' wife said in a statement issued by Cleveland Police: "No words will ever feel like the right words to honour our Matt - my beloved husband, my best friend, and the most devoted father to our two young boys.
"He was an adored son and brother, a perfect son-in-law, and the most fun uncle.
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