YOUNGSTERS throwing stones at cars have been warned they could face a charge of murder if a fatal accident happened.

Cleveland Police issued a warning to youths who have been throwing stones at both homes and cars over the weekend.

A taxi escaped damage after being targeted in Middlesbrough and in another part of the town stones were being thrown at the windows of houses.

Police on social media warned that youngsters could be arrested for criminal damage, manslaughter, or even murder, if the stone throwing led to someone's death.

They said: "Causing danger to road users under the Road Traffic Act 1988 carries a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment.

"Offenders can be charged with manslaughter 'without intent'.

"Under other specific circumstances, with the right intent, if a person is killed by someone throwing stones at vehicles they may, if there is intent, be charged with murder.

"Please be aware local and district officers will be using the full extent of the law to bring these offenders to justice."