Morpeth crash: Families of Riley Hedley and Mikey Easton pay tribute

“Inseparable” teenage pals Riley Hedley and Mikey Easton were pronounced dead at the scene of the incident on the A196 near Coopies Way, Morpeth.

Emergency crews attended the scene at about 12.40am on Sunday (March 12) but the two teens, 17-year-old Riley and 16-year-old Mikey, tragically passed away.

Read more: Go Fund Me launched for Riley Hedley and Mikey Easton

In a joint tribute on Tuesday (March 14) their families described them as a “fun-loving duo”, adding that they are “heartbroken beyond words”.

A statement released by the families said: “We are heartbroken beyond words. Both our families have had their worlds turned upside down.

Floral tributes left at the scene of the incident on Sunday. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

“Riley and Mikey were inseparable. Two lads who grew up together and were so close - they could have been brothers. They were a fun-loving duo that lit up every room.

“No news has ever devastated us more. Our lives will be changed forever and there will never be a day that goes by that we won’t miss them with all our hearts.”

Flowers and emotional tributes have been left at the scene of the incident in Northumberland since Sunday.

Mikey, 16, and Riley, 17. (Image: NORTHUMBRIA POLICE)

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One tribute read, “Fly high Mikey”.

An online fundraiser launched in their memory has so far raised more than £5,300 (as of 4.30pm on Tuesday, March 14).

Their families added: “We have all taken a huge amount of comfort in the kindness that we have been shown by the friends of Riley and Mikey, they were two boys who made a loving and lasting impact on everybody they met and were loved by all.

'Fly high Mikey' - Flowers left at the scene (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

“We also want thank neighbours and local businesses for their kindness - the whole community has rallied behind us and we’re so full of gratitude.

“While we thank everyone for their support and kindness, we now ask that our privacy be respected while we continue to try and come to terms with the loss of our two wonderful boys.”

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Police have said both families are being supported by specialist officers.

An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances of the incident.

The A196 at Coopies Way (Image: DANIEL HORDON)

Investigating officer Sergeant Craig Bartle previously described the incident as “incredibly tragic”.

He added: “Our thoughts go out to both the young men’s families and close ones as they attempt to come to terms with the devastating news.

“An investigation has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the collision and we’re asking for anyone who has not yet spoken to us to get in touch, especially if you were travelling in the area and may have some information or dashcam footage that could help our enquiries.”