This is the first picture of a ‘beautiful’ mother killed in a suspected hit and run crash as police hunt the driver of a Skoda who fled the scene.
Claire Laybourne, 39, died in hospital on Saturday after she sustained serious injuries in a two-vehicle collision at 10.40pm on Friday on the A19 at Holystone, North Tyneside.
Northumbria Police said a Volkswagen T-roc and a Skoda Fabia were both travelling north when they collided.
The Skoda driver did not stop at the scene and was believed to have fled the area on foot, the force said.
Ms Laybourne from Hebburn, South Tyneside, was treated by emergency services at the scene and was taken to hospital, but she could not be saved.
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Her family paid tribute, saying: ‘Claire was a beautiful soul whose kindness, warmth, and gentle strength touched everyone she met.
‘She was an extraordinary mother, a devoted partner, a cherished daughter, a loving auntie, and a loyal friend.
‘Her presence lit up every room, and her love held our family together in ways words can never truly capture.
‘Our hearts are broken, and our lives have been changed beyond anything we could have imagined.
‘The depth of our grief is matched only by the depth of the love we carry for her.
‘We will miss her beyond what words are able to portray.
‘Claire’s memory will forever live on in all of us who were blessed to know her.
‘May she rest in peace, and may we hold her spirit close as we navigate the world without her.’
Three men, aged in their 20s and 30s, were arrested in connection with the incident.
All three men have now been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Police collision experts have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
The force said they wanted to hear from anyone who saw a black Skoda Fabia with a 24-plate registration, travelling near the area at the time of the collision.
Sergeant Dave Roberts, of the Force’s Roads Policing Team, said: ‘This is an extremely sad update, and our thoughts remain firmly with the loved ones of Claire at this time.
‘As we continue to investigate this collision and look to provide Claire’s family with answers, we ask again for anyone who may have information to come forward.
‘No matter how insignificant you think it may be, it could prove crucial to our ongoing investigation.’
People can contact Northumbria Police via social media, the force website or by calling 101.
