Man still being quizzed by police after stolen HGV leaves trail of destruction in Wearside streets

Shell-shocked residents said the consequences could have been far worse after a driver went on a 'rampage' through the Millfield area of the city.

Cars and homes damaged on Thursday lunchtime as the wagon hit vehicles in Close Street and the back lane between Granville Street and Lime Street.

A small red van, believed to belong to workers carrying out renovations on a house, was left written off after being hit by the vehicle while the back wall of a corner property in Granville Street was left partially demolished.

It also clipped the side of the Church of the Nazarene, on neighbouring Close Street, causing minor damage, and is believed to have hit a police car before being stopped.

Northumbria Police believe that the HGV used is one which was stolen from Stephenson Industrial Estate in Washington.

Police said today that a man arrested in connection with the offence remains in custody.

Those living in the area told of their shock at the trail of destruction.

Zoe Cruickshanks, of Lime Street, who is aunt to her brother Leon’s children Hannah, four, and Leona, two, said: “If the driver hadn’t turned the corner in the back lane he could’ve smashed through the wall into my kitchen.

“It’s very lucky that no-one was hurt as there are always kids playing in the streets, especially when it’s sunny like this.

“My brother’s kids are usually out here.”

Ms Cruickshanks, 22, added: “The driver of the red van would probably have been killed if he’d been sat in it.

“Whoever the person in the HGV is, they have gone on a proper rampage around here.”

Rev David Hands, of the Church of the Nazarene, said: “Thankfully, only a few bricks have been knocked from the church wall but it could have been a lot worse.

“It’s a shame that someone would do this in the first place.”

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 435 040816 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.