A POLICE investigation has been launched following the death of a teenager who is thought to have stepped into the path of a fire engine responding to a 999 call.

The 18-year-old man, who has not yet been named, was struck by the engine on Sunderland's Queen Alexandra Bridge, on Sunday.

It is understood the teenager comes from the Sunderland area and had become 18 just two days earlier.

The accident happened about 9.15pm when the man was walking with two female friends.

At the same time, two fire engines, from Sunderland central fire station were travelling in a northerly direction with blue lights flashing and sirens sounding to answer a 999 call in the city centre.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said the teenager had "stepped from the west side of the walkway into the path of the second engine'' for reasons which have not yet been established.

The man suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival at Sunderland Royal Hospital.

The accident is being investigated by police from motor patrols at Southwick police station, in Sunderland.

Divisional Officer Kevin Hepple, at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said yesterday: "This is a tragic incident and we would like to pass on our deepest sympathies to the family of the young man who died.''

He also confirmed that officers at the service had spent the day giving Northumbria Police assistance with their investigations.

He said that the firefighters involved were deeply shocked by the incident and were being offered support by the brigade.

It is understood that the inquiry into the fatal incident is still in its early stages and could take some time to complete.

Yesterday, family and friends of the teenager, who was about to start a new job, placed flowers at the scene of the accident.

Sergeant John Butler, of motor patrols south, said: "Two fire appliances attending a 999 call were crossing from south to north on the Queen Alexandra Bridge.

"An 18-year-old male, for reasons as yet not known, has gone into the path of one of them and has suffered fatal injuries.

"We are appealing for witnesses to contact us."

People with information are asked to ring the police on 0191-454 7555.