Stolen BMW Crashes into Sunderland Care Home, Killing Two Elderly Women

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A routine police chase took a devastating turn last Wednesday when a stolen BMW ploughed into Highcliffe Care Home in Sunderland, killing two elderly women and reigniting debate over pursuit safety.

The fatal incident happened on Wednesday night, July 9, when officers from Northumbria Police began pursuing a BMW that had reportedly been stolen moments earlier in the Fenham area of Newcastle.

Shortly after the chase began, the vehicle left the A1231 dual carriageway and collided with Highcliffe Care Home in Witherwack, causing significant structural damage to the building.

Two women, one in her eighties and the other in her nineties, suffered serious injuries during the crash. Police confirmed they both died the following day. 

Eight other residents who suffered injuries had been rushed to the hospital, with one remaining confined as of Friday, July 11. 

Two men, both 21, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of vehicle theft and dangerous driving. 

They were identified as Sam Asgari-Tabar, charged with robbery, kidnapping, and causing serious injury by dangerous driving; and Reece Parish, who is facing charges of robbery, kidnapping, and a separate count of violent disorder. 

Both are due to appear at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Saturday. A mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which will review the circumstances of the police chase.

Highcliffe Care Home provides geriatric care, particularly for those living with dementia. Following the crash, the care home has been evacuated. Residents have also been moved to alternative accommodation while structural assessments are carried out.

Investigation Underway

Chief Superintendent Mark Hall said the incident was “an extremely sad development” and urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue. He added that determining whether the collision directly contributed to the deaths would form a key part of the inquiry.

Photographs taken at the scene showed that a large section of the care home’s exterior wall had collapsed. Debris, including bricks and furniture, was scattered across the pavement, and part of the first floor was also damaged.

Avery Healthcare, which operates the facility, said its priority is the safety and well-being of residents. A spokesperson praised staff and emergency services for their swift and compassionate response.

Residents nearby said they had long warned about dangerous driving along Whitchurch Road, where the crash occurred. 

One local described it as a “disaster waiting to happen” and said the tragedy had confirmed their worst fears.

As the investigation continues, the local community has been left shaken. For the families of those who died, the loss is profound, and many are now seeking answers about how this could have happened.