Key Points
- A man believed to be in his 50s died at the scene of a pedestrian collision on Trunk Road near Lazenby and Grangetown.
- The incident occurred shortly after 5.30pm on Thursday, January 15, 2026, on the A1053, known locally as the road leading to the ‘Mad Mile’.
- The pedestrian was struck by three vehicles: a Kia Niro, a Skoda Karoq, and a Lexus RZ.
- The man suffered significant injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency response.
- Cleveland Police confirmed the death and expressed condolences to the family and friends.
- The road was closed in both directions into the early hours of Friday for a collision investigation.
- Officers are appealing for witnesses who saw a pedestrian on Trunk Road around 5:30pm on January 15.
- Police request dashcam footage; contact 101 quoting reference SE26009025.
- North East Ambulance Service dispatched a paramedic ambulance, clinical team leader, and specialist paramedic to assist police and fire services.
- Motorists were advised to avoid the area during the closure.
- Reported by Poppy Kennedy, Chief Reporter of Gazette Live, published 12:49 on January 16, 2026, updated 12:55.
Lazenby (Gazette Live) January 16, 2026 – A man in his 50s tragically lost his life at the scene after being struck by three cars on Trunk Road near Lazenby and Grangetown, Cleveland Police has confirmed. Emergency services rushed to the A1053, the road leading to the notorious ‘Mad Mile’, shortly after 5.30pm on Thursday, January 15. The pedestrian suffered significant injuries in the collision involving a Kia Niro, Skoda Karoq, and Lexus RZ, and died despite immediate efforts.
What Happened in the Collision?
As reported by Poppy Kennedy, Chief Reporter of Gazette Live, a spokesperson for Cleveland Police stated that the man was a pedestrian believed to be aged in his 50s. The force detailed that he was involved in a collision with three specific vehicles: a Kia Niro, Skoda Karoq, and Lexus RZ. “The man suffered ‘significant injuries’ in the incident and sadly died at the scene,” the spokesperson confirmed.
The incident took place on Trunk Road, a key route near Lazenby towards Grangetown, known for its heavy traffic leading to the ‘Mad Mile’ section of the A1053. Emergency calls came in just after 5.30pm, prompting a swift response from multiple agencies. No further details on the drivers’ conditions were immediately released, but the focus remains on the pedestrian’s untimely death.
Who Responded to the Scene?
A spokesperson for North East Ambulance Service said:
“We attended an incident on Trunk Road near Grangetown just after 5.30pm yesterday. We dispatched a paramedic ambulance, clinical team leader and specialist paramedic who assisted police and fire service colleagues at the scene.”
Cleveland Police led the response, with fire services also present to support operations. The multi-agency effort underscored the severity, as the man was declared dead on site due to his injuries. Road users were diverted as closures extended late into the night.
Why Was the Road Closed?
The road was closed in both directions into the early hours of the morning as a collision investigation took place, according to Poppy Kennedy’s reporting in Gazette Live. Motorists were told to avoid the area on Thursday evening due to the full closure. This allowed forensic teams to examine the scene thoroughly without interference.
Such closures are standard for fatal incidents to gather evidence, including skid marks, vehicle positions, and witness statements. The A1053’s proximity to busy areas like Grangetown amplified the disruption, but safety dictated the measures.
What Is Cleveland Police Asking For?
Officers are now appealing to anyone who may have seen a pedestrian walking along the Trunk Road around 5:30pm on Thursday, January 15, to get in touch with Cleveland Police. The spokesperson added:
“Anyone who may have dash cam footage is also asked to call Cleveland Police on 101, quoting reference number SE26009025.”
This witness appeal aims to reconstruct the events leading to the crash. Police emphasise the value of dashcam evidence in modern investigations, often providing crucial footage of pedestrian movements or vehicle approaches. Contact details were reiterated for public assistance.
How Has Cleveland Police Responded?
A spokesperson for the force said: “Our thoughts remain with the man’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.” This statement reflects standard protocol in expressing sympathy while maintaining an ongoing probe. No arrests or charges were mentioned at this stage.
The force’s collision investigation unit is likely spearheading the inquiry, given the reference number SE26009025. Updates will follow as family liaison officers support the deceased’s loved ones. Neutrality in reporting avoids speculation on causes.
What Do We Know About the Location?
Trunk Road near Lazenby connects to the A1053, dubbed the ‘Mad Mile’ for its challenging driving conditions amid industrial and residential zones near Grangetown. The area sees significant commuter and heavy goods traffic, heightening risks for pedestrians.
Recent reports noted emergency activity on this stretch, with one on January 15 mentioning services on Trunk Road between A1053 and Mad Mile in Redcar vicinity. Visibility at dusk around 5.30pm may factor into analyses.
Are There Similar Incidents Nearby?
While this fatal crash stands alone in recent coverage, Teesside roads have seen prior collisions, such as a pedestrian hospitalised with broken legs on Brotton Road in 2025. No direct links exist, but the region grapples with road safety challenges.
Cleveland Police handles multiple incidents annually, with appeals for footage common. Gazette Live’s Poppy Kennedy has covered various Teesside crashes, highlighting persistent concerns on routes like the A1053.
What Happens Next in the Investigation?
The probe continues with scene forensics and vehicle examinations. Driver interviews are probable, alongside coroner involvement for the inquest. Public tips via 101 remain vital, ensuring comprehensive findings.
As with standard procedure, Cleveland Police will release updates without compromising the inquiry. Families receive priority support amid grief. The incident underscores pedestrian vulnerabilities on busy arterials.
