AN inquest into the death of a teenager who died following a police pursuit has been opened.

Kelvin Bainbridge, 19, suffered fatal injuries after he failed to stop for officers before the six minute pursuit, then jumped out of the moving vehicle before he was hit by the police car.

Mr Bainbridge died at the scene of the incident in Spennymoor, County Durham, on Friday, October 18.

On Monday, October 21, a post-mortem examination was carried out which found Mr Bainbridge had suffered a blunt head injury.

Following the death floral tributes and messages were left at the scene.

One message read: “Never ever forget you my brother, always my brother, love you so much my homie.”

Another said: “Rest in paradise bro. You will be engraved in my heart I will miss you so so much and I will never forget you ever.”

In a statement released by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said its investigation has made significant progress and more details about the circumstances can now be shared.

IOPC interim regional director David Ford said: "Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Mr Bainbridge’s family and friends and everyone affected by this sad incident. We have met with his family and will continue to keep them informed as our investigation progresses."

Senior coroner for County Durham and Darlington, Jeremy Chipperfield, adjourned the inquest for mention to Monday, December 9, for further information to be gathered.