FOUR men have been arrested after an Audi drove down a slip road in the wrong direction and crashed into another car during a police chase near Middlesbrough. 

The A19 Southbound near Middlesbrough will remain closed this morning following a collision which took place around 12:30am this morning.

A Cleveland Police spokespreson said; "Officers were in pursuit of a black Audi in Middlesbrough, when the vehicle drove down a slip road in the wrong direction and collided with a Peugeot 208.

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"The driver of the 208 was taken to hospital for treatment, and injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

"The 31-year-old driver of the Audi was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and drug driving and is in police custody. Three other men, aged 37, 34, and 22, who were passengers in the car were also arrested in connection with the incident.

"A 39-year-old man, who was also a passenger in the vehicle has been taken to hospital with non-life-threatening leg injuries."

A referral will be made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to the collision happening after a police pursuit, which is mandatory.

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Road diversions are in place for the A19 and drivers are being asked to allow for a longer journey time if possible.

Anyone who witnessed the black Audi or who may have footage of the incident is asked to contact police through the report section of the Cleveland Police website or by calling 101.

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