POLICE have launched an investigation after a 19-year-old man was killed in a road accident in County Durham this morning.

Dominic James Osbourne Scarre from Finchale, Durham, was the passenger of a Peugeot 406 which was involved in a collision with a lorry at around 7.50am on the A689 at Sedgefield.

Mr Scarre, a former pupil of Framwellgate School in Durham, was pronounced dead at the scene by a Great North Air Ambulance (GNAA) doctor.

The driver, a 32-year-old woman from Willington, was treated for shock.

The driver of the other vehicle, a Ford Transit Dropside Tipper, was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.

The 27-year-old from Meadowfield has been bailed pending further enquiries.

A GNAA spokesperson said Mr Scarre had suffered serious and multiple injuries. “Despite the best efforts of the crew the patient unfortunately died," he said. 

Messages of condolence from Mr Scarre’s friends appeared on Facebook and Twitter within minutes of the police revealing his identity.

Kes Emily Smith wrote: “RIP Dom. You will be missed by everyone who knew you. You were a good lad. I can’t believe it. I have known you since year seven.”

Amanda Tully wrote: “We all love you Dom, never forgotten.”

Kirstie Gibson wrote: “RIP Dominic. You were such a lovely person. You were in all my classes for five years. You are in a safe place now and will be missed deeply.”

Many others expressed their shock and disbelief at the news and said their thoughts were with Mr Scarre’s family.

The A689 was closed in both directions for four hours following the accident, which took place just past the Sands End roundabout, heading towards the A177.

Witnesses are being sought and accident investigators want to hear from anyone who saw a broken down Peugeot 406 along the road before 7.50am.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Police’s accident unit on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.